U.S. patent application number 11/306788 was filed with the patent office on 2007-09-06 for method for playing a matching game.
This patent application is currently assigned to BALLY GAMING, INC.. Invention is credited to Mickey Roemer, David B. Schultz.
Application Number | 20070205556 11/306788 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34274151 |
Filed Date | 2007-09-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070205556 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Roemer; Mickey ; et
al. |
September 6, 2007 |
Method for Playing A Matching Game
Abstract
A preferred method includes displaying a plurality of
indicia-bearing game pieces 12 on a gaming grid 14. A player then
selects game pieces 12 that are adjacent and that have matching
indicia 16. Preferably, the matching adjacent game pieces 34 that
are selected are then removed from the gaming grid 14. One or more
prizes are awarded in association with the selection and removal of
the matching adjacent game pieces 34. Preferably, the player is
also provided with the ability to shuffle any remaining
non-selected game pieces 32, after all matching adjacent game
pieces that are perceived by the player are selected and removed.
In this regard, it is possible that the player may overlook some
matching adjacent game pieces 34. Additionally, some preferred
embodiment gaming methods incorporate the use of multiple indicia
16 on each game piece 12 for potentially matching with adjacent
game pieces. Finally, awards can be awarded to a player based upon
game speed and the number of shuffles required to clear the grid
14, amongst other criteria. Preferably, the method also includes
activation of an interactive help feature 100 for the bonus game.
The help feature 100 is continuously accessible, allowing access to
the help feature during play of the bonus game so that a player
unfamiliar with the bonus game may receive instructions on how to
play the bonus game during play of an active bonus game.
Inventors: |
Roemer; Mickey; (Las Vegas,
NV) ; Schultz; David B.; (Las Vegas, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STEPTOE & JOHNSON, LLP
1330 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20036
US
|
Assignee: |
BALLY GAMING, INC.
6601 S. Bermuda Road
Las Vegas
NV
|
Family ID: |
34274151 |
Appl. No.: |
11/306788 |
Filed: |
January 11, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10662605 |
Sep 15, 2003 |
|
|
|
11306788 |
Jan 11, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
273/273 ;
463/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3295 20130101; G07F 17/3262 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/273 ;
463/016 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24; A63F 3/00 20060101 A63F003/00 |
Claims
1. A video gaming machine that displays a primary game and a
secondary game, and that further provides information to assist a
player in how to play a game while the game is in play, the gaming
machine comprising: a video screen that displays game play; a
microprocessor that controls at least a portion of the game play;
and an interactive help feature for the secondary game, wherein the
help feature is continuously accessible, allowing access to the
help feature during play of the secondary game so that a player
unfamiliar with the secondary game may receive instructions on how
to play the secondary game while the secondary game is currently
active.
2. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature includes multiple help screens.
3. The video gaming machine of claim 2, wherein the interactive
help feature includes navigation controls to move between the
multiple help screens.
4. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature includes both static and animated assets that provide
explanations of game play.
5. The video gaming machine of claim 4, wherein the animated assets
in the interactive help feature provide real time examples of game
play.
6. The video gaming machine of claim 4, wherein the animated assets
in the interactive help feature allow a player to participate in at
least a portion of a sample bonus game.
7. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature incorporates touch screen controls.
8. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature is exitable by a player at any time.
9. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature occupies only part of the video screen.
10. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature occupies all of the video screen.
11. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature halts play of the bonus game while the interactive
help feature is activated.
12. The video gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the interactive
help feature does not affect play of the bonus game when the
interactive help feature is activated.
13. An interactive help system for a video gaming machine that
displays an initial game and a bonus game, wherein the interactive
help system provides information that allows a player to learn game
rules during play of an active game, the help system comprising: a
video screen that displays at least a portion of the help system
when activated; a microprocessor that controls at least a portion
of the help system; and an interactive help feature for the bonus
game, wherein the help feature is continuously accessible, allowing
access to the help feature at any time during play of the bonus
game so that a player unfamiliar with the bonus game may receive
instructions on how to play the bonus game during play of an active
bonus game.
14. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature includes multiple help screens.
15. The video gaming machine of claim 14, wherein the interactive
help feature includes navigation controls to move between the
multiple help screens.
16. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature includes both static and animated assets that provide
explanations of game play.
17. The video gaming machine of claim 16, wherein the animated
assets in the interactive help feature provide real time examples
of game play.
18. The video gaming machine of claim 16, wherein the animated
assets in the interactive help feature allow a player to
participate in at least a portion of a sample bonus game.
19. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature incorporates touch screen controls.
20. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature is exitable by a player at any time.
21. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature occupies only part of the video screen.
22. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature occupies all of the video screen.
23. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature halts play of the bonus game while the interactive
help feature is activated.
24. The video gaming machine of claim 13, wherein the interactive
help feature does not affect play of the bonus game when the
interactive help feature is activated.
25. A method for playing a gaming machine that incorporates an
interactive bonus game help feature, the method comprising:
initiating play of a primary game; in response to a predetermined
outcome of the primary game, initiating play of a bonus game; in
response to a selection event by a player, activating an
interactive help feature for the bonus game during play of the
bonus game, wherein the help feature is available on demand by the
player, and wherein the help feature is initiatable at any time
during play of the bonus game so that a player may receive
instructions that assist in proper play of the bonus game while the
bonus game is in active use; and resuming play of the bonus game
after the use of the help feature is completed.
26. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature includes multiple help screens.
27. The video gaming machine of claim 26, wherein the interactive
help feature includes navigation controls to move between the
multiple help screens.
28. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature includes both static and animated assets that provide
explanations of game play.
29. The video gaming machine of claim 28, wherein the animated
assets in the interactive help feature provide real time examples
of game play.
30. The video gaming machine of claim 28, wherein the animated
assets in the interactive help feature allow a player to
participate in at least a portion of a sample bonus game.
31. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature incorporates touch screen controls.
32. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature is exitable by a player at any time.
33. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature occupies only part of the video screen.
34. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature occupies all of the video screen.
35. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature halts play of the bonus game while the interactive
help feature is activated.
36. The video gaming machine of claim 25, wherein the interactive
help feature does not affect play of the bonus game when the
interactive help feature is activated.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/662,605 filed Sep. 15, 2003, which is herein incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates generally to methods for game
play, and more particularly, to a method for playing a game
involving the matching of symbols on a game screen.
BACKGROUND DESCRIPTION
[0004] As the gaming industry has expanded over the years, numerous
types and variations of gaming machines have been developed for the
enticement and enjoyment of players. Game play is enticed with the
possibility of one or more payout awards to the player. Also, some
games involve elements of both skill and chance. To many players,
the popularity of a game is connected with the perception of how
often a game pays out awards. In this regard, the possibilities for
devising different types of awards are seemingly as endless as the
variations of games and gaming machines.
[0005] Some games that players enjoy involve elements of both
chance and skill. One such traditional game of chance and skill is
a matching game. In a traditional matching game, players select and
"match" symbols that are exhibited on cards or tiles displayed to
the player. Matching games may be played as a table game using
cards, on a mechanical gaming machine or video gaming machine using
cards, or as tiles located within a grid. Typically, play of a
matching game begins with the display of a plurality of cards or
tiles, each of the cards or tiles exhibiting a symbol. In some
matching games, the cards or tiles are displayed face down and the
player must remember where the symbols are located and turn them
face up in order to match the cards or tiles. In other matching
games, the cards or tiles are displayed face up. The object of this
type of game is to match all of the cards or tiles and to clear the
screen as quickly as possible. Still in other matching games, some
cards or tiles are displayed face up while others are displayed
face down.
[0006] For most traditional matching games, the goal of the game is
to have the player select the symbols and "match" two or more
identical symbols. The matched cards or tiles are removed from
play, and the player continues to match cards or tiles until all of
the cards or tiles have been matched together. When the cards or
tiles are matched, the player receives an award corresponding to
his play of the game.
[0007] However, none of the matching games in the prior art allow
or require a player to match files or cards based upon both similar
symbols as well as the location of the files with respect to one
another. Accordingly, there is a continuing need in the art to
provide unique and interesting methods of playing a matching game
and for providing awards for the matching of symbols appearing on a
plurality of tiles within a grid.
[0008] Additionally, as the gaming options become more numerous and
complex, players can sometimes have difficulty keeping up with the
knowledge required to play these games. If a player is losing while
playing new or more complex games because of a lack of knowledge of
game rules, this will tend to decrease player interest and
excitement. This can be particularly true with respect to new or
more complex bonus games that may be more unique, or to which the
player may have more limited exposure. Accordingly, there is a
continuing need in the art to provide new devices and methods for
imparting helpful knowledge to players as to how new and/or more
complex games are played, preferably with little or no detrimental
effect to player excitement during this learning process.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Briefly, and in general terms, the present invention
provides a method for playing a game that involves matching
adjacent game pieces, each game piece displaying the same indicia.
The method includes: displaying a plurality of indicia-bearing game
pieces on a gaming grid; selecting game pieces that are adjacent
and that have matching indicia; removing the matching adjacent game
pieces that were selected from the gaming grid; and awarding at
least one prize associated with the selection and removal of the
matching adjacent game pieces.
[0010] More particularly, in accordance with one aspect of the
present invention, the selection and removal of the matching
adjacent game pieces proceeds one pair of matching adjacent game
pieces at a time. However, in other embodiments, matching adjacent
game pieces are selected in groups larger than one pair at a time.
Preferably, the selection and removal of the matching adjacent game
pieces proceeds until all matching adjacent game pieces (or all
matching adjacent game pieces that are perceived by a player) are
removed from play, and any prizes associated therewith have been
awarded.
[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
adjacent game pieces are defined as game pieces that touch along a
vertical edge, a horizontal edge, or a diagonal corner. In one
embodiment of the present invention, each game piece contains only
a single indicium that is used to potentially match with the
indicia of adjacent game pieces. Furthermore, in one embodiment of
this gaming method, the indicium displayed on each game piece that
is used to match with the indicia of adjacent game pieces
corresponds to the prize to be awarded. In another aspect of the
present invention, the prize to be awarded is a non-monetary prize.
In one such embodiment, the prize to be awarded is a magazine
photograph. Specifically, in one exemplary embodiment, the magazine
photograph is a cover, such as a Playboy Playmate.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
one or more "sets" of indicia are used. These indicia or pictures
can include various denominations of currency, traditional gaming
machine symbol sets or sets, of "themed" symbols. In embodiments
that utilize currency symbols, the denominations of currency (i.e.,
cents, dollars, and the like) may be selected, as well as the
actual type of currency shown (i.e., U.S. dollars, English pounds,
and the like). Themes of symbols also may be selected, such as a
circus theme showing symbols of clowns, unicycles, elephants,
lions, and the like. Pictures, or sets of pictures may also be
used, such as, but not limited to, Playboy Playmate themed tiles or
sports figure themed tiles. Finally, the more traditional gaming
symbols may be used on the tiles, such as card suits, sevens, bars,
and fruit.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
each game piece displays a plurality of indicia that are used to
potentially match with at least one of the plurality of indicia of
the adjacent game pieces. Preferably, each game piece contains
three indicia that are used to potentially match with at least one
of the three indicia of an adjacent game piece. In one particular
embodiment, the three indicia of the game pieces include, by way of
example only, and not by way of limitation, game piece color, type
of indicia, and color of indicia. Other non-limiting examples of
indicia characteristics include game piece shape, indicia shape,
and indicia size.
[0014] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
invention, the game pieces are video representations of game
pieces. Furthermore, in one embodiment the game pieces are selected
using touch screen technology. Specifically, in one exemplary
embodiment the game pieces are tiles. However, the game pieces may
also be cards, blocks, or other similar objects that are displayed
within the gaming grid. Preferably, the video simulation of the
tiles, which are arranged within or on a gaming grid, is
implemented on a video gaming machine. In other embodiments, the
method for playing a game incorporates the use of selection
buttons. Such selection mechanisms may include, but are not limited
to, buttons corresponding to the grid tiles on the display, which
can be activated to select a given tile, or various scrolling
mechanisms, which permit a player to scroll up and down and left to
right to highlight and then select certain grid tiles or game
pieces.
[0015] In accordance with still another aspect of the present
invention, the gaming method further includes shuffling any
non-selected game pieces remaining within the game grid into a
consolidated grouping, after all matching adjacent game pieces that
have been perceived by a player have been selected and removed.
This provides a player with a supplemental opportunity to select
and remove any additional matching adjacent game pieces. In one
embodiment, the shuffling of any remaining game pieces and the
selecting of matching adjacent game pieces is repeatable up to a
predetermined maximum number of times. Preferably, the shuffling of
any remaining game pieces and the selecting of matching adjacent
game pieces is repeatable up to three times.
[0016] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
one or more prizes are awarded in connection with the following
criteria, which are provided by way of example only, and not by way
of limitation: the total number of matches made, the indicia shown
on the game pieces that are matched, the indicia shown on game
pieces that are matched last, the indicia shown on game pieces that
are not matched, the speed with which the game pieces are matched,
the number of shuffles required to match all game pieces, the
matching of all game pieces, and various combinations thereof. In
one embodiment of the present invention, the method for playing a
game is at least partially skill-based, while in other embodiments,
the method has only the appearance of being skill-based.
[0017] Additionally, in another method for playing a game that
involves matching adjacent game pieces, each game piece displaying
the same indicia, the method includes: displaying a plurality of
indicia-bearing game pieces on a gaming grid; selecting game pieces
that are adjacent and that have matching indicia; deactivating the
matching adjacent game pieces that were selected; and awarding at
least one prize associated with the selection and deactivation of
the matching adjacent game pieces. In such an embodiment, the
deactivation of the matching adjacent game pieces that are selected
does not necessarily result in the removal of those game pieces
from the gaming grid. In this way, for example, the game pieces may
be used in subsequent games upon reshuffling of the game
pieces.
[0018] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a video gaming machine that displays a primary game and a secondary
game, also provides information to assist a player in how to play a
game while a game is in active play. Preferably, the gaming machine
includes a video screen, a microprocessor, and an interactive help
feature. The video screen displays game play and the microprocessor
controls at least a portion of the game play. Preferably, the
interactive help feature provides game rules and related
information for the secondary game. In other embodiments, the
interactive help feature provides game rules and related
information for the primary game in addition to and/or instead of
the secondary game. In a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the help feature is continuously accessible, allowing
access to the help feature at any time during play of the secondary
game. Thus, if a player is unfamiliar with the secondary game, the
player may receive instructions on how to play the secondary game
while that secondary game is currently active.
[0019] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
the interactive help feature preferably includes multiple help
screens. In one preferred embodiment, the interactive help feature
includes navigation controls to assist a player in moving between
the multiple help screens. In accordance with another preferred
aspect of the present invention, the interactive help feature
includes both static and animated assets that provide explanations
of game play. Preferably, the animated assets in the interactive
help feature provide real time examples of game play. In still
another preferred embodiment, the animated assets in the
interactive help feature allow a player to participate in at least
a portion of a sample bonus game.
[0020] In accordance with still another aspect of the present
invention, the interactive help feature incorporates touch screen
controls. Preferably, the interactive help feature is exitable by a
player at any time. In one preferred embodiment, the interactive
help feature occupies only part of the video screen, while in
another preferred embodiment the interactive help feature occupies
all of the video screen. In accordance with yet another aspect of
the present invention, the interactive help feature halts play of
the bonus game while the interactive help feature is activated.
Alternatively, in another preferred embodiment, the interactive
help feature does not affect play of the bonus game when the
interactive help feature is activated.
[0021] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed
towards an interactive help system for a video gaming machine, the
gaming machine displaying an initial game and a bonus game.
Preferably, the interactive help system provides information that
allows a player to learn game rules during play of an active game.
In a preferred embodiment, the help system includes a video screen
that displays at least a portion of the help system when activated,
a microprocessor that controls at least a portion of the help
system, and an interactive help feature for the bonus game.
Preferably, the help feature is continuously accessible, allowing
access to the help feature at any time during play of the bonus
game. In this manner, a player unfamiliar with the bonus game may
receive instructions on how to play the bonus game during an active
bonus game.
[0022] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed
towards a method for playing a gaming machine that incorporates an
interactive bonus game help feature. The method includes initiating
play of a primary game; initiating play of a bonus game in response
to a predetermined outcome of the primary game; in response to a
selection event by a player, activating an interactive help feature
for the bonus game during play of the bonus game, wherein the help
feature is available on demand by the player, and wherein the help
feature is initiatable at any time during play of the bonus game so
that a player may receive instructions that assist in proper play
of the bonus game while the bonus game is in active use; and
resuming play of the bonus game after the use of the help feature
is completed.
[0023] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way
of example, the features of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustrating a typical gaming machine
for use, in accordance with the present invention, showing symbols
displayed on game pieces or tiles located on a gaming grid;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustrating a gaming grid on which
game pieces are positioned, the game pieces exhibiting card suit
symbols thereon, and further illustrating the concept of matching
adjacent game pieces;
[0026] FIG. 3 is an exemplary display of one embodiment, according
to the present invention, showing a gaming grid wherein matching
adjacent game pieces are selected in a first selection period;
[0027] FIG. 4 is an exemplary display of one embodiment in a second
selection period, according to the present invention, after the
selection and removal of matching adjacent game pieces in FIG. 3,
and after the shuffling and consolidating of the non-selected game
pieces from the first selection period;
[0028] FIG. 5 is an exemplary display of one embodiment in a third
selection period, according to the present invention, after the
selection and removal of matching adjacent game pieces in FIG. 4,
and after the shuffling and consolidating of the non-selected game
pieces from the second selection period, and further showing a
scenario whereby all remaining game pieces are cleared from the
gaming grid;
[0029] FIG. 6 is another exemplary display of one embodiment in a
third selection period, according to the present invention, after
the selection and removal of matching adjacent game pieces in FIG.
4, and after the shuffling and consolidating of the non-selected
game pieces from the second selection period, and further showing a
scenario whereby all remaining game pieces are not cleared from the
gaming grid;
[0030] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustrating a grid comprised of game
pieces exhibiting three potential matching elements (i.e. symbol
shape, tile background color, and symbol size/color) and showing
exemplary three-way matches;
[0031] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of one embodiment, according to the
present invention, showing the play of the matching game;
[0032] FIG. 9 is an initial exemplary screen of an interactive help
feature that explains play of the matching game to a player,
according to the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 10 is a second exemplary screen of an interactive help
feature that explains play of the matching game to a player,
according to the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 11 is a third exemplary screen of an interactive help
feature that explains play of the matching game to a player,
according to the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 12 is a fourth exemplary screen of an interactive help
feature that explains play of the matching game to a player,
according to the present invention; and
[0036] FIG. 13 is a fifth exemplary screen of an interactive help
feature that explains play of the matching game to a player,
according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] A preferred embodiment gaming method, implemented in
accordance with the present invention, provides a player with the
opportunity to play a matching game in which a plurality of
indicia-bearing game pieces are displayed on a gaming grid or game
screen. Such a game can be a primary game or a secondary bonus
game. In this manner, player excitement is derived and heightened
from the visual entertainment that occurs when matching adjacent
game pieces are selected and removed from the gaming grid in an
attempt by the player to clear all game pieces from the gaming grid
to receive prizes in association therewith.
[0038] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals denote like or corresponding parts throughout the
drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1-2, there is shown a
preferred method for playing a matching game, in accordance with
the present invention. Briefly stated, a preferred embodiment
method of the present invention utilizes a gaming machine 10 having
game pieces 12 positioned contiguously on a gaming grid 14 or
screen. Each game piece 12 displays indicia 16 that may or may not
match the indicia of adjacent game pieces. A preferred method
includes displaying a plurality of indicia-bearing game pieces 12
on the gaming grid 14. A player then selects game pieces 12 that
are adjacent and that have matching indicia 14. Preferably, the
matching adjacent game pieces 12 are selected and then removed from
the gaming grid 14. One or more prizes are awarded in association
with the selection and removal of the matching adjacent game pieces
12. Preferably, the player is also provided with the ability to
shuffle any remaining non-selected game pieces 12, after all
matching adjacent game pieces (or all matching adjacent game pieces
that have been perceived by the player) have been selected and
removed in the current round of play. In this regard, it is
possible that the player may overlook some matching adjacent game
pieces 12. Preferably, it is in the player's best interest to
identify and select all of the matching adjacent game pieces 12.
Additionally, some preferred embodiment gaming methods incorporate
the use of multiple indicia 16 (or categories of indicia 16) on
each game piece 12 for potentially matching with adjacent game
pieces.
[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment gaming machine 10,
configured with a display screen 17 on which the gaming grid 14 and
game pieces 12 are displayed. As described above, each of the game
pieces 12 displayed on the gaming grid 14, include at least one
indicium 16 (e.g., symbol). The size of the gaming grid 14 and the
number of game pieces 12 used on the gaming grid may differ between
various preferred embodiments of the present invention. In one
embodiment, the gaming machine 10 further includes control buttons,
such as, but not limited to, (1) betting buttons 18, for adding
and/or modifying any bets a player makes on the outcome of a game,
and (2) a play/shuffle button 20 that is used to initiate the play
of the game and to shuffle the game pieces 12 on the grid 14.
Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, the gaming machine 10 is
also configured with a coin-in slot 22 and a secondary display/top
box 24.
[0040] In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the
gaming machine is a video gaming machine. In one embodiment, the
control buttons (e.g., the betting button 18 and the shuffle button
20) are provided on a touch screen. Thus, in such an embodiment,
the gaming machine display screen 17 is a touch sensitive screen.
The player is able to select game pieces 12 on the grid 14 by
merely touching the grid locations on the screen 17 that correspond
to the game pieces that the player wishes to select.
[0041] In other preferred embodiments, the control buttons are
hard-wired to the gaming machine 10 for use by the player in
controlling various functions of the matching game. However, in
other preferred embodiments, the selection of the game pieces 12 on
the grid 14 is accomplished using buttons that correspond directly
to the game pieces on the grid. In still additional embodiments,
scrolling mechanisms are used to scroll up, down, left, and right,
and then to highlight or otherwise select game pieces 12 on the
grid 14. Other mechanical and/or electromechanical selection
devices may also be used in other embodiments of the present
invention. Furthermore, additional buttons may be added to the
gaming machine 10 to further facilitate control of the game.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment, a player
locates and selects two game pieces 12 that are positioned next to
one another on the grid 14 and that have matching indicia 16
displayed thereon. FIG. 2 illustrates various ways that game pieces
12 may be positionally located so as to be considered adjacent to
each other. Preferably, game pieces 12 may be horizontally adjacent
26, vertically adjacent 28, or diagonally adjacent 30. In a
preferred embodiment, game pieces 12 are defined as adjacent when
they are directly next to, i.e. "touching" another game piece 12.
In such an embodiment, game pieces 12 that have the same indicia 16
thereon and are in close proximity to each other, but are not
touching, are considered non-matching adjacent game pieces 31. In
one preferred embodiment, after a pair of matching adjacent game
pieces have been selected by the player, the selected game pieces
disappear or are otherwise removed from the gaming grid 14. In
another preferred embodiment, matching adjacent game pieces that
are selected by the player are simply deactivated, such that the
game pieces cannot be selected again.
[0043] In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the gaming grid
14 and game pieces 12 are initially displayed to a player on a
gaming machine 10. The player attempts to select all of the
matching adjacent game pieces that are displayed. It is possible
that a player may overlook, and thus, not select some of the
matching adjacent game pieces. In FIG. 3, exemplary matching
adjacent game pieces 34 (hereinafter matching adjacent game pieces
are numerically designated as 34) are highlighted. Correspondingly,
exemplary non-selected game pieces 32 (hereinafter non-selected
game pieces are numerically designated as 32) are not highlighted.
During play, the player attempts to select all of the matching
adjacent game pieces 34 that are displayed on the grid 14. However,
as discussed above, the player may miss or otherwise overlook some
of the matching adjacent game pieces 34, and therefore, select only
a portion of the matching adjacent game pieces 34 displayed on the
gaming grid 14. In either circumstance, the player reaches a point
of play where he believes that no further matching adjacent game
pieces 34 remain on the grid 14. Thus, these non-selected game
pieces 32 that remain on the grid 14 are either non-matching
adjacent game pieces or missed matching adjacent game pieces.
Preferably, it is in the player's interest not to miss any matching
adjacent gaming pieces 34.
[0044] In one preferred embodiment, after the player has selected
all of the matching adjacent game pieces 34 (or all of the matching
adjacent game pieces 34 that he perceives to be on the grid 14),
and those matching adjacent game pieces that were selected have
been removed, the player is provided with the option of shuffling
the remaining game pieces (i.e., the non-selected game pieces 32)
on the grid 14. The shuffling process consolidates the remaining
game pieces into a consolidated, contiguous arrangement that
creates new adjacent game piece positions. In other words, by
shuffling the non-selected game pieces 32, additional matching
adjacent pairs of game pieces may be produced.
[0045] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, all of the matching
adjacent game pieces 34 that were selected (from FIG. 3) have been
removed from the grid 14, and the remaining non-selected game
pieces 32 have been shuffled. Thus, the only game pieces 12 that
remain on the gaming grid 14, as shown in FIG. 4, are the
non-selected game pieces 32 from FIG. 3. As discussed above, the
shuffling process arranges the remaining game pieces 12 into a
consolidated grouping located within the grid 14. The shuffling
process creates new adjacencies among the remaining game pieces,
thereby potentially creating new matching adjacent game pieces 34.
Following the shuffle, the player selects all of the matching
adjacent game pieces 34 (or all of the matching adjacent game
pieces 34 that the player perceives) on the gaming grid 14 that are
produced by the shuffle in this second selection period. Again, the
player may overlook, and thus, not select some of the matching
adjacent game pieces 34 in the second selection period. Thus, the
game pieces 12 shown in FIG. 4 that are not matching adjacent game
pieces (and any overlooked matching adjacent game pieces) remain
non-selected game pieces 32 at the end of the second selection
period.
[0046] In the game outcome shown in FIG. 5, the non-selected game
pieces 32 from the consolidated grouping in the second selection
period are shuffled into another consolidated grouping for the
third selection period. In the resultant grouping of game pieces 12
shown in FIG. 5, the player is able to select all of the remaining
game pieces as matching adjacent game pieces 34 in this third
selection period, and thus, clear the gaming grid 14 when these
matching adjacent game pieces 34 are selected and removed.
Previously, the game pieces 12 selected during the first selection
period were removed from the grid 14, as were the game pieces
selected during the second selection period. Therefore, FIG. 5
shows a game outcome in which a player succeeds in clearing the
grid 14 by matching all of the game pieces 12 during the third
selection period.
[0047] Conversely, FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate game outcome to
FIG. 5 (i.e., a different post-shuffle configuration of the
remaining game pieces). In FIG. 5, a player succeeds in clearing
the grid 14 by matching all of the game pieces during the third
selection period. In the game outcome shown in FIG. 6, however, the
non-selected game pieces 32 from the grid 14 are shuffled into a
consolidated grouping that does not provide the player with an
opportunity to select all of the remaining game pieces as matching
adjacent game pieces 34. In the game scenario of FIG. 6, the player
cannot select all of the game pieces 12 from the grid 14 in the
third selection period due to their random placement as
non-matching adjacent game pieces after the consolidation of the
second shuffle. Therefore, FIG. 6 illustrates a situation where the
player is left with non-selected game pieces 32 remaining on the
grid 14. Thus, the player does not succeed in clearing the grid 14
of all game pieces 12 in the third selection period. In a preferred
embodiment of the present invention that allows up to three
shuffles, the player has one last shuffle, after which, the player
can attempt, one more time, to clear the gaming grid 14 in the
fourth selection period.
[0048] Preferably, a player has the option to shuffle the game
pieces 12 three times after the gaming grid 14 is initially
displayed, thus resulting in a total of four selection periods. In
this regard, the player will have four attempts to clear all the
game pieces from the grid 14. One of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate, however, that any number of selection periods and
shuffles may be used in accordance with the present invention.
[0049] In summary, the process includes: (1) initially selecting
and removing any matching adjacent game pieces 34 perceived by the
player from amongst all game pieces initially displayed on the grid
14, thereby attempting to clear the grid; (2) shuffling any
remaining, non-selected game pieces 32 to form a consolidated
grouping that creates new adjacencies on the gaming grid; (3)
again, selecting and removing any matching adjacent game pieces 34
produced from the consolidation of game pieces, thereby attempting
to clear the grid; (4) shuffling, if any, the remaining,
non-selected game pieces 32 a second time to again form a
consolidated grouping that creates new adjacencies on the gaming
grid 14; (5) selecting and removing any matching adjacent game
pieces 34 produced from the second consolidation of game pieces,
thereby attempting to clear the grid; (6) shuffling the remaining,
if any, non-selected game pieces 32 a third time to form, yet
again, consolidated a grouping that creates new adjacencies on the
gaming grid 14; and (7) selecting and removing any matching
adjacent game pieces 34 produced from the third consolidation of
game pieces, thereby attempting to clear the grid. The player is
then rewarded based upon the number of game pieces, matched, the
number of shuffles required to clear the screen, speed of play, or
the like, or any combination thereof.
[0050] Although in one preferred embodiment, the player has four
attempts to clear the game pieces 12 from the grid 14 by shuffling
remaining game pieces, in another embodiment of the matching game,
a player is not permitted to shuffle the game pieces at all. In
still another embodiment, a player is provided with more than three
shuffles (and thus, four selection periods) to clear the grid 14.
In another such embodiment, the player is given unlimited shuffling
opportunities.
[0051] In one preferred embodiment, once the player has selected
all of the matching adjacent game pieces 34 he perceives, an award
is provided. The amount of the award may vary depending on the
number of shuffles required by the player to clear the grid, e.g.,
a special bonus award may be awarded if the player clears the grid
during the first selection period. The award may also vary
according to the speed at which the player selects matching pairs.
The award may further vary according to how many game pieces remain
when no more shuffles are available. The award may also vary
depending on the final pair selections or upon the initial
selections made. In other embodiments, still additional factors of
the game may be used to vary the award and game play.
[0052] In another embodiment of the matching game shown in FIG. 7,
each game piece 12 includes three distinct categories of indicia
16. In this embodiment, a player matches adjacent game pieces 12
based upon at least one of three categories of indicia 16 exhibited
on the game pieces 12. FIG. 7 illustrates the multiple different
indicia 16 on the game pieces 12 used to "match" adjacent game
pieces. By way of example only, and not by way of limitation, in
one embodiment the categories of indicia 16 are represented by game
piece color 72 (represented by shading on the background of some
game pieces in FIG. 7), type of indicia 74, and color of indicia 76
(indicia color being represented by underlining in FIG. 7). In this
regard, the player may "match" adjacent game pieces 12 according to
the game piece's background color 72, type of indicia 74, and color
of indicia 76.
[0053] Preferably, in this embodiment, the player selects a first
game piece and continues to move from adjacent game piece to
adjacent game piece, matching one or more categories of indicia 16
on the game pieces. Preferably, several game piece groups 78 are
selected by matching at least one category of indicia 16 on a first
game piece with an adjacent game piece. FIG. 7 also shows that this
manner of matching one or more categories of indicia 16 for each
game piece may still result in non-selected game pieces 32, and
thus, the gaming grid 14 may not be completely cleared. As such, in
some embodiments, the shuffle option may also be available
here.
[0054] Because the player is matching one or more categories of
indicia 16 for each game piece 12, the play of the game in this
embodiment adds another dimension to the matching game, because
each game piece has the potential to match with an increased number
of adjacent game pieces. Moreover, in an embodiment where matching
adjacent game pieces that are selected disappear from the grid, the
skill factor is increased since the player must decide the order in
which matching adjacent game pieces are selected. That is, the
matching of adjacent game pieces in one indicia category may very
well result other game pieces no longer having any matching
adjacencies. In yet another embodiment, the complexity of the game
may be altered by requiring more than one of the three categories
of indicia 16 exhibited on the game pieces 12 to be matching in
order for a pair of game pieces 12 to be selectable.
[0055] Referring now to FIG. 8, a preferred method of playing the
matching game includes displaying a grid 14 upon which
indicia-bearing game pieces are positioned (Step 80). A player then
selects matching adjacent game pieces 34 (Step 82). If the player
succeeds in clearing all of the game pieces 12 in this first
selection period, the player has won the game in the first period
of play (Step 84) and an appropriate award and/or bonus is provided
(Step 86).
[0056] However, if the player has matched, and thus cleared, fewer
than all of the game pieces 12 in the first period of play, the
player may then shuffle the game pieces that are not selected as
matching adjacent game pieces during the first selection period.
Thus, the player shuffles the non-selected game pieces 32 remaining
from the first selection period to form a consolidated grouping of
game pieces for a second selection period (Step 88). The player
then selects any matching adjacent game pieces 34 during the second
selection period (Back to Step 82). If the player successfully
selects and clears all of the remaining game pieces 12, the player
has won the game during the second selection period (Step 84), and
an appropriate award and/or bonus is provided (Step 86).
[0057] If during the second period, however, the player fails to
match and clear all of the remaining game pieces 12, the player may
then shuffle the game pieces that are not selected as matching
adjacent game pieces during the second selection period. By
shuffling the non-selected game pieces 32 a second time after the
second selection period, the player forms a consolidated grouping
of game pieces for a third selection period (Step 88). The player
then commences play during the third selection period by selecting
any matching adjacent game pieces 34 from the latest consolidated
grouping (Step 82). If the player successfully selects and clears
all of the game pieces 12 during the third selection period, the
player is provided with an appropriate award and/or bonus (Step
86). This process continues until there are no shuffles remaining
(Step 85), and this represents the end of the game (Step 88). The
player may also receive an award even if some game pieces 12 remain
following the completion of the final selection period. This
process is repeated for however many shuffles and selection periods
as are provided in the particular embodiment of the present
invention (Step 85).
[0058] In yet another embodiment of the matching game, merely
selecting a matching adjacent pair of game pieces 12 reveals an
award. That is, in this embodiment, matching two similar indicia 16
on two adjacent game pieces 12 results in an award to the player,
regardless of, and independent of, whether the player actually
selects and clears all of the rest of the game pieces from the grid
14. Furthermore, the value of the award for matching game pieces
can be configured as a constant value or the award value can vary
depending upon the play of the game and the end result.
[0059] A preferred embodiment of the matching game may also provide
awards for which there is no monetary value. That is, the
predetermined prize for winning the game is not the traditional
monetary prize award. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the
indicia 16 on the game pieces 12 on the grid 14 are pictures of
Playboy Playmates. As with other embodiments described herein, the
player selects matching adjacent game pieces 34 until either no
more matches actually exist, or the player mistakenly believes that
no more matches exist. The player may then shuffle the game pieces
12 in order to consolidate the remaining game pieces and to have an
additional attempt to match all of the game pieces on the grid 14
with other matching adjacent game pieces. Preferably, if the player
is successful in matching all of the game pieces 12 on the grid 14,
an award is provided. In one preferred embodiment, the award is the
display of a cover picture of the Playmate whose picture was on the
final matched game pieces 12. Moreover, the award can encompass a
combination of the traditional monetary award and a pictorial
display. Although the pictures are described herein as Playboy
Playmates, almost any type of pictorial display could be used. For
example, sports legends, picturesque scenes, product
advertisements, and the like could be used as the indicia 16
exhibited on the game pieces 12 of the grid 14.
[0060] The award may also be configured as one or more awards,
including jackpots, bonuses, free games, and the like. In a
preferred embodiment of the matching game, a special jackpot is
provided if the player succeeds in clearing all of the game pieces
12 in the first selection period. That is, in order to win this
special jackpot, the player must clear all of the game pieces 12 on
the grid 14 without shuffling the game pieces and without going to
a second or third selection period. This special jackpot could be a
monetary award, free games, a pictorial display, or any other
awards as desired by the gaming machine manufacturer. Likewise,
tiered bonuses corresponding to the number of shuffles required to
clear all of the game pieces may be provided. In this regard, as a
player uses an increasing number of shuffles to attempt to clear
all of the game pieces 12, the bonus, jackpot, or other award
provided to the player will decrease.
[0061] A further embodiment provides bonuses and awards relating to
the speed with which the player clears the game pieces 12 from the
grid 14. By way of example, and not by way of limitation, if the
player clears all of the game pieces 12 from the grid 14 in less
than one minute, the player receives a certain award, whereas, if
the player clears all of the game pieces from the grid in more than
one minute, the player receives a lesser award. In other
embodiments, other time parameters may be used. Similarly, tiered
awards may also be configured relating to the speed with which the
player selects all of the matching adjacent game pieces 34 for a
given selection period (e.g., in the first selection period, the
second selection period produced by the first shuffle, the third
selection period produced by the second shuffle, and the like). In
yet another embodiment, awards are based (at least in part) on
player status. For example, in one such embodiment, a "VIP player"
is awarded a special or different bonus award based upon their
status and the play of the game.
[0062] In some embodiments, merely selecting a matching adjacent
pair of game pieces 12 reveals an award. For example, if the player
selects a pair of game pieces exhibiting monetary symbols, e.g.
$100, by simply matching the two $100 game pieces, the player may
be awarded $100. Similarly, if the player selects a pair of
matching adjacent game pieces 34 that exhibit no ascertainable
award value, the symbols on the game pieces may correspond to a
predetermined prize that is awarded to the player upon the
selection of the matching game piece indicia 16, i.e., a mystery
jackpot. Further, the value of the award for matching game pieces
12 may be a constant value or the value of the award may vary. In
each instance, matching two similar indicia 16 results in an award
to the player, regardless of and independent of whether the player
actually selects and clears the remainder of the game pieces 12
from the grid 14.
[0063] A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for
the strategy and skill of the player to affect the final outcome of
the game. The indicia 16 exhibited on the game pieces 12 may
correspond to a predetermined payout or other type of award (i.e.,
pictorial award). Furthermore, the last matched pair of game pieces
may determine the amount of a monetary award or bonus or the
pictorial award. Accordingly, the player may make strategy
decisions designed to impact the selection of the final pair of
game pieces. That is, if the player knows that matching a pair of
clubs as the last pair will result in an award of $100, while
matching a pair of hearts as the last pair will result in an award
of $50, the player can make strategy decisions to affect the final
outcome of the game, i.e., to have the final pair of game pieces
matched as clubs instead of hearts.
[0064] Finally, in still another embodiment, the matching adjacent
game pieces 34 that are selected do not disappear as two or more
adjacent game pieces are matched. Instead, the player moves from
game piece to game piece, selecting each game piece individually,
until the player has matched one or more of the indicia categories
of each game piece to those of any and all adjacent game pieces.
Only when the player has selected all of the matching adjacent game
pieces 34 and wishes to shuffle the game pieces for a subsequent
selection period, do the matching adjacent game pieces 34 that were
selected disappear (i.e., become blank grid positions) or become
disabled from play. Thus, in this embodiment, once the player
believes he has exhausted all potential matches in the grid, the
player may shuffle the remaining, non-selected game pieces 32 and
continue play as described above. Moreover, in this embodiment, the
fact that the matching adjacent game pieces 34 remain on the grid
14 after being selected impacts the player's ability to make
additional matches.
[0065] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 9-13, another aspect of the
present invention is directed towards a preferred embodiment gaming
machine 10 that incorporates a primary game (e.g., a reel spinning
game), a secondary game (e.g., the matching bonus game), and an
interactive help feature 100 that provides information to assist a
player in how to play a game while the game is actually in play.
Preferably, the gaming machine 10 includes a video screen 17 that
displays game play and a microprocessor 110 that controls at least
a portion of the game play. In a preferred embodiment, the
interactive help feature 100 provides game rules and related
information for the secondary game, which in this embodiment, is
the matching bonus game. In other embodiments, the interactive help
feature 100 provides game rules and/or related information for the
primary game in addition to and/or instead of the secondary game.
In a preferred embodiment, the help feature is continuously
accessible, allowing access to the help feature at any time during
play of the game. Thus, if a player is unfamiliar with the play of
the game, that player may receive instructions on how to play the
game at any time that the help feature-assisted game is currently
active.
[0066] In one embodiment, the interactive help feature 100 utilizes
multiple help screens 120. Preferably, the interactive help feature
100 includes navigation controls 130 to assist a player in moving
between the multiple help screens 120. However, in some
embodiments, the interactive help feature 100 runs in an animated
format when activated, and continues to do so, until the help
feature is interacted with by the player. Preferably, the
interactive help feature 100 includes both static and animated
assets that provide explanations of game play; however, some
embodiments include only static assets or animated assets. In one
preferred embodiment, the animated assets in the interactive help
feature 100 provide real time examples of game play. In other
preferred embodiments, the animated assets are configured to allow
a player to actually participate in at least a portion of a sample
bonus game.
[0067] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the
interactive help feature 100 incorporates touch screen controls.
Preferably, the interactive help feature 100 can be exited by a
player at any time using navigation controls or other player
controls. In one preferred embodiment, the interactive help feature
100 occupies only part of the video screen 17, while in another
preferred embodiment, the interactive help feature 100 occupies the
entire video screen. In another aspect of a preferred embodiment,
the interactive help feature 100 halts play of the bonus game while
the interactive help feature 100 is activated. Alternatively, in
another preferred embodiment, the interactive help feature 100 does
not affect play of the bonus game when the interactive help feature
100 is activated. In some types of games, halting of the game play
during the help feature 100 is necessary in order to prevent
detrimental effects from occurring to the player while the help
feature is being accessed; however, in other types of games, game
play is not halted because halting the game play while the help
feature 100 is activated gives the player an unfair advantage
(e.g., more time to strategize, plan, and the like).
[0068] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed
specifically towards an interactive help system for a video gaming
machine 10. The interactive help system provides information that
allows a player to learn game rules during play of an active game.
In a preferred embodiment, the help system utilizes a video screen
17 that displays at least a portion of the help system when
activated. A microprocessor 110 controls at least a portion of the
help system. Specifically, the help system incorporates an
interactive help feature 100 that is associated with the help
feature-assisted game. Preferably, the help feature 100 is
continuously accessible, allowing access to the help feature at any
time during play of the game. In this manner, a player unfamiliar
with the help feature-assisted game may receive instructions on how
to play the game during an active help feature-assisted game. Thus,
the help system 100 minimizes the chance that a player will be
adversely affected during a game due to a lack of knowledge of the
game's rules. The player can actually access the help system 100
and learn the game rules during an active game, instead of having
to wait until after the game has terminated to access the
interactive help feature.
[0069] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is
directed towards a method for playing a gaming machine 10 that
incorporates an interactive bonus game help feature 100. The method
includes initiating play of a primary game. Preferably in response
to a predetermined outcome of the primary game, play of a bonus
game is then initiated. The method further includes activating an
interactive help feature 100 for the bonus game during play of the
bonus game, preferably in response to a selection event by a
player. In a preferred method, the interactive help feature 100 is
available on demand by the player, and is initiatable at any time
during play of the bonus game so that a player may receive
instructions that assist in proper play of the bonus game while the
bonus game is in active use. Preferably, the method also includes
resuming play of the bonus game after the use of the help feature
100 is completed.
[0070] Furthermore, the various methodologies described above are
provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to
limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily
recognize various modifications and changes may be made to the
present invention without departing from the true spirit and scope
of the present invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the
invention be limited, except as by the appended claims.
* * * * *