U.S. patent application number 12/210577 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-21 for jackpot system.
This patent application is currently assigned to KONAMI AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.. Invention is credited to Jason Lim, Ichiro Tsuchida.
Application Number | 20090131161 12/210577 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40642554 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090131161 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lim; Jason ; et al. |
May 21, 2009 |
JACKPOT SYSTEM
Abstract
A method of play on an electronic gaming machine wherein at
least one predefined outcome of a base game played on said gaming
machine triggers the winning of at least one jackpot prize from a
range of potential progressive jackpot prizes; wherein a value of
any jackpot prize increases incrementally between a base value and
a maximum value; and wherein said value and progress of any
increment of said value is displayed on said gaming machine.
Inventors: |
Lim; Jason; (Botany, AU)
; Tsuchida; Ichiro; (Botany, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LADAS & PARRY LLP
26 WEST 61ST STREET
NEW YORK
NY
10023
US
|
Assignee: |
KONAMI AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.
|
Family ID: |
40642554 |
Appl. No.: |
12/210577 |
Filed: |
September 15, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10974546 |
Oct 27, 2004 |
|
|
|
12210577 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/27 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3258 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3253 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/27 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 31, 2003 |
AU |
2003905989 |
Claims
1. A method of play on an electronic gaming machine wherein at
least one predefined outcome of a base game played on said gaming
machine triggers the winning of at least one jackpot prize from a
range of potential progressive jackpot prizes; wherein a value of
any jackpot prize increases incrementally between a base value and
a maximum value; and wherein said value and progress of any
increment of said value is displayed on said gaming machine.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said progress of said increment
is displayed in association with said value.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein said progress of said increment
is displayed as a proportional display.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein said proportional display is
implemented as a bar graph.
5. The method of claim 3, wherein said proportional display is
implemented as a clock-type display with dial.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein each of said jackpot prizes
equals a number of bonus games.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein said value of any jackpot prize
increases as a function of monetary value bet on said gaming
machine.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein said value of any jackpot prize
increases as a function of the volume of play on said base
game.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein a display of an unattended said
gaming machine alternates between display of values of said range
of potential jackpot prizes and attractor displays.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein a said attractor display
includes a display indicating levels reached of incrementally
increasing values said jackpot prizes.
11. The system of claim 9, wherein said attractor display is
displayed in a segment of a jackpot screen.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein said jackpot screen is a
separate secondary top box display.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein said value of any said jackpot
prize increases incrementally as a function of aggregate play on a
number of linked gaming machines.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein said value of any said jackpot
prize is displayed to players of each active ones of said linked
gaming machines.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein a win of a said jackpot prize
by a player of one of said linked gaming machine is displayed to
all said players of said active ones of said gaming machines.
16. The system of claim 13, wherein a jackpot controller of said
linked gaming machines converts said aggregate play into a number
of bonus games at each sufficient increment of a said value of a
said jackpot prize.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein awarding of a jackpot prize is
biased towards a machine of said linked gaming machines which
indicates highest accrued turnover.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein value of jackpot prizes is
indicated on a common display visible to all players of said linked
gaming machines.
19. The method of claim 1, wherein an indicator by its proportional
proximity to a sector boundary provides a proportional indication
to a player of progress towards an increment in the number of items
of value.
20. A method of play on any one of a number of linked electronic
gaming machines wherein at least one predefined outcome of a base
game played on a said gaming machine triggers the winning of at
least one jackpot prize from a range of potential progressive
jackpot prizes; wherein a value of any jackpot prize increases
incrementally between a base value and a maximum value as a
function of aggregate play on of said base games played on said
linked machines; each of said jackpot prizes equaling a number of
bonus games, and wherein a jackpot controller of said linked gaming
machines converts said aggregate into a number of bonus games at
each sufficient increment of a said value of a said jackpot prize;
and wherein said value and progress of any increment of said value
is displayed on the said gaming machine.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a systems of stand-alone
and interlinked gaming machines or consoles of the type generally
referred to as slot machines, fruit machines or poker machines, and
in particular to a game play control system for such machines
having a multiple jackpot management means where the jackpots
conferred are of a non-monetary nature.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Gaming or poker machines have become a major source of
amusement and diversion in such places as clubs, hotels and casinos
in many parts of the world.
[0003] Traditionally such machines were mechanical devices where a
number of reels marked with a plurality of numbers or symbols could
be made to spin randomly by the application of some mechanical
input. If the subsequent patterns of numbers or symbols displayed
on the reels, when these returned to a rest state, corresponded to
predetermined patterns, the machine would provide a prize or
payout. Generally such gaming machines have come to be regulated by
government authorities as to their number and in the manner in
which the machines must return a percentage of the monetary
turnover to the players.
[0004] The introduction of electronics, computers and electronic
graphical displays, has allowed a continual increase in the
complexity and variations of gaming machines and games while
maintaining the basic concept of the traditional machine.
[0005] Machines and games that offer novel and stimulating
variations on the basic game theme and environment are eagerly
sought by the gaming industry and there is consequently intense
competition between machine manufacturers to innovate.
[0006] Nevertheless the repetitive playing of even modern gaming
machines can lead to boredom of the players with a consequent
under-utilization of machines and increase in player
dissatisfaction.
[0007] It is an object of the present invention to offer a
variation which may ameliorate the above disadvantages.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0008] Accordingly in one broad form of the invention there is
provided a method of play on an electronic gaming machine wherein
at least one predefined outcome of a base game played on said
gaming machine triggers the winning of at least one jackpot prize
from a range of potential progressive jackpot prizes; wherein a
value of any jackpot prize increases incrementally between a base
value and a maximum value; and wherein said value and progress of
any increment of said value is displayed on said gaming
machine.
[0009] Preferably said progress of said increment is displayed in
association with said value.
[0010] Preferably said progress of said increment is displayed as a
proportional display.
[0011] Preferably said proportional display is implemented as a bar
graph.
[0012] Preferably said proportional display is implemented as a
clock-type display with dial.
[0013] Preferably each of said jackpot prizes equals a number of
bonus games.
[0014] Preferably said value of any jackpot prize increases as a
function of monetary value bet on said gaming machine.
[0015] Preferably said value of any jackpot prize increases as a
function of the volume of play on said base game
[0016] Preferably a display of an unattended said gaming machine
alternates between display of values of said range of potential
jackpot prizes and attractor displays.
[0017] Preferably said attractor display includes a display
indicating levels reached of incrementally increasing values said
jackpot prizes.
[0018] Preferably said attractor display is displayed in a segment
of a jackpot screen.
[0019] Preferably said jackpot screen is a separate secondary top
box display.
[0020] Preferably said value of any said jackpot prize increases
incrementally as a function of aggregate play on a number of linked
gaming machines.
[0021] Preferably said value of any said jackpot prize is displayed
to players of each active ones of said linked gaming machines.
[0022] Preferably a win of a said jackpot prize by a player of one
of said linked gaming machine is displayed to all said players of
said active ones of said gaming machines.
[0023] Preferably a jackpot controller of said linked gaming
machines converts said aggregate play into a number of bonus games
at each sufficient increment of a said value of a said jackpot
prize.
[0024] Preferably awarding of a jackpot prize is biased towards a
machine of said linked gaming machines which indicates highest
accrued turnover.
[0025] Preferably the value of jackpot prizes is indicated on a
common display visible to all players of said linked gaming
machines.
[0026] Preferably an indicator by its proportional proximity to a
sector boundary provides a proportional indication to a player of
progress towards an increment in the number of items of value.
[0027] In yet a further broad form of the invention there is
provided a method of play on any one of a number of linked
electronic gaming machines wherein at least one predefined outcome
of a base game played on a said gaming machine triggers the winning
of at least one jackpot prize from a range of potential progressive
jackpot prizes; wherein a value of any jackpot prize increases
incrementally between a base value and a maximum value as a
function of aggregate play on of said base games played on said
linked machines; each of said jackpot prizes equaling a number of
bonus games, and wherein a jackpot controller of said linked gaming
machines converts said aggregate into a number of bonus games at
each sufficient increment of a said value of a said jackpot prize;
and wherein said value and progress of any increment of said value
is displayed on the said gaming machine.
[0028] Accordingly, in a further broad form of the invention there
is provided a method of play on an electronic gaming machine
wherein at least one predefined outcome of a base game played on
said gaming machine triggers the winning of at least one jackpot
prize from a range of potential jackpot prizes; said range of
potential jackpot prizes being non-monetary prizes.
[0029] Preferably said non-monetary prizes are bonus games.
[0030] Preferably said non-monetary prizes are items of perceived
value.
[0031] Preferably said non-monetary prizes are combinations of
bonus games and at least one item of perceived value.
[0032] Preferably indicia relating to said potential jackpot prizes
is displayed on a segment of a single graphic display screen of
said electronic gaming machine.
[0033] Preferably indicia relating to said potential jackpot prizes
is displayed on a secondary graphic display screen of said
electronic gaming machine.
[0034] Preferably said graphic display screen is a cathode ray
tube.
[0035] Preferably said graphic display screen is a liquid crystal
display.
[0036] Preferably said graphic display screen is a plasma
screen.
[0037] Preferably said graphic display screen is that of a back
projection system.
[0038] Preferably said indicia indicates a number of bonus games
comprising said at least one jackpot prize.
[0039] Preferably said indicia indicates at least one of said items
of perceived value.
[0040] Preferably said at least one jackpot prize is one of at
least three levels of jackpot prizes.
[0041] Preferably said at least three levels of jackpot prizes
comprises a number of said bonus games.
[0042] Preferably said at least three levels of jackpot prizes
comprises a said item of perceived value.
[0043] Preferably said number of bonus games increases
progressively between a minimum number of said bonus games for a
lowest level of said at least three levels of jackpot prizes to a
maximum number of said bonus games for a highest level of said at
least three levels of jackpot prizes.
[0044] Preferably said item of perceived value increases from an
item of minimum value for a lowest level of said at least three
levels of jackpot prizes to an item of maximum value for a highest
level of said at least three levels of jackpot prizes.
[0045] Preferably awarding of a level of said at least three levels
of jackpot prizes is determined by said at least one predefined
outcome of said base game.
[0046] Preferably said electronic gaming machine is a stand-alone
electronic gaming machine.
[0047] Preferably said electronic gaming machine is one of a
plurality of electronic gaming machines.
[0048] Preferably each one of said plurality of electronic gaming
machines is linked to a site controller.
[0049] Preferably said site controller is adapted to the recording
of turnover on each one of said plurality of electronic gaming
machines as progressive amounts.
[0050] Preferably said site controller transmits updated values of
said progressive amounts to a progressive controller module of each
one of said plurality of electronic gaming machines for
determination of said at least one jackpot prize.
[0051] Preferably a play of said base game on one electronic gaming
machine of said plurality of electronic gaming machines in which an
outcome of said play coincides with one of said at least one
predefined outcome causes a hit event signal to be transmitted to a
progressive controller module of said one electronic gaming
machine.
[0052] Preferably said progressive controller module transmits a
hit event notification signal to said site controller.
[0053] Preferably said progressive controller module transmits a
hit animation command to a graphic display controller module of
said one electronic gaming machine.
[0054] Preferably each graphic display controller module of each
said graphic display screen of said plurality of electronic gaming
machines is in communication with all other graphic display
controller modules.
[0055] Preferably said hit animation command is transmitted to all
said graphic display controller modules.
[0056] Preferably said animation command is adapted to the display
of indicia spread over at least two graphic display screens of said
plurality of electronic gaming machines.
[0057] Preferably said hit event received by said site controller
triggers transmission of a hit acknowledgement signal to said
progressive controller module; said signal including current
monetary value of said progressive amounts appropriate to said hit
event.
[0058] Preferably said progressive controller module converts said
monetary value into a corresponding number of bonus games
comprising said at least one jackpot prize.
[0059] Preferably said progressive controller module converts said
monetary value into a reference for a corresponding item of
perceived value.
[0060] Preferably said number of bonus games is displayed on said
graphic display screen of Preferably imagery of said corresponding
item of perceived value is displayed on said graphic display
screen.
[0061] In a further broad form of the invention there is provided
apparatus for the playing of a games of chance wherein the outcome
of a base game played on said apparatus triggers the winning of at
least one jackpot prize from a range of potential jackpot prizes;
said range of potential jackpot prizes being non-monetary
prizes.
[0062] Preferably said non-monetary prizes are bonus games.
[0063] Preferably said non-monetary prizes are items of perceived
value.
[0064] Preferably said non-monetary prizes are combinations of
bonus games and at least one item of perceived value.
[0065] Preferably said apparatus includes at least one electronic
gaming machine.
[0066] Preferably said at least one electronic gaming machine is
provided with a main graphic display means adapted to the playing
of said base game.
[0067] Preferably said at least one electronic gaming machine is
provided with a secondary graphic display means adapted to display
indicia associated with said range of potential jackpot prizes.
[0068] Preferably said secondary display means comprises a segment
of said main graphic display means.
[0069] Preferably said segment is displayed continuously while said
electronic gaming machine is in use.
[0070] Preferably said segment is displayed intermittently between
successive plays of said base game.
[0071] Preferably said secondary graphic display means is a
separate secondary graphic display mounted to each of said at least
one electronic gaming machine.
[0072] Preferably said graphic display means is cathode ray
tube.
[0073] Preferably said graphic display means is a liquid crystal
display.
[0074] Preferably said graphic display means is a plasma
screen.
[0075] Preferably said graphic display means is a back projection
system.
[0076] Preferably volume of play of said base game provides an
input so as to incrementally increase values of said at least one
jackpot prize.
[0077] Preferably said at least one electronic gaming machine is
one of a plurality of gaming machines; each of said gaming machines
linked to a site control module.
[0078] Preferably said secondary displays of each one of said
plurality of gaming machines are mounted in a common enclosure;
said closure superposed over said plurality of gaming machines.
[0079] Preferably said secondary displays are arranged in an
abutting array so as to permit a progressive display of graphics
from any one display to other ones of said abutting array.
[0080] Preferably said site control module maintains soft meters
for each one of said plurality of gaming machines; said soft meters
maintaining current accumulated turnover values generated by each
of said machines.
[0081] Preferably each one of said plurality of gaming machines is
provided with a machine processor.
[0082] Preferably each one of said plurality of gaming machines is
provided with a graphic display controller.
[0083] Preferably each one of said plurality of gaming machines is
provided with a progressive control module.
[0084] Preferably each said progressive control module is adapted
to convert said current accumulated turnover into a corresponding
number of bonus games.
[0085] Preferably each said progressive control module is adapted
to convert said current accumulated turnover into a corresponding
identifier of an item of perceived value.
[0086] Preferably indicia indicating said number of bonus games is
displayed on said secondary graphic display means.
[0087] Preferably graphic imagery of said item of perceived value
is displayed on said secondary graphic display means.
[0088] Preferably said site controller supports three levels of
jackpot prizes.
[0089] Preferably each level of said three levels of jackpot prizes
is defined by a predetermined range of bonus games.
[0090] Preferably each level of said three levels of jackpot prizes
is defined by a predetermined range of items of perceived
value.
[0091] Preferably said machine processor signals said progressive
controller of any jackpot winning event of a base game play.
[0092] Preferably said progressive controller signals said site
controller of said jackpot winning event; said signal including
said level of jackpot prize.
[0093] Preferably said site controller transmits current
accumulated turnover value to said progressive control module.
[0094] Preferably said progressive control module enables play of
said bonus games.
[0095] In yet a further broad form of the invention there is
provided a method of play as herein described and with reference to
the accompanying drawings.
[0096] In yet a further broad form of the invention there is
provided apparatus for the playing of games of chance as herein
described and with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0097] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described
with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0098] FIG. 1 is a front view of a stand-alone gaming machine
having a single graphic display according to a first preferred
embodiment of the invention.
[0099] FIG. 2 is a front view of a stand-alone gaming machine
provided with an additional graphic display according to a second
preferred embodiment of the invention.
[0100] FIG. 3 is a front view of a number of linked gaming machines
each with a single graphic display according to a third preferred
embodiment of the invention.
[0101] FIG. 4 is a front view of a number of linked gaming machines
each provided with an additional graphic display housed in a top
box mounted to the top of each gaming machine.
[0102] FIG. 5 is a front view of a number of linked gaming machines
each provided with an additional graphic display housed in a common
enclosure according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the
invention.
[0103] FIG. 6 is a front view of a number of linked gaming machines
supporting a common enclosure housing graphic displays for each
machine; the graphic displays close-coupled together to permit
graphic imagery to flow across multiple screens.
[0104] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing the interaction between one
of a linked plurality of gaming machines, a site controller and a
graphical display.
[0105] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram showing the interaction of FIG. 7
after the winning of a jackpot prize.
[0106] FIG. 9 is a graphical representation of a game meter
incorporating a proportional display in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0107] FIG. 10 illustrates graphically an alternative proportional
display arrangement.
[0108] FIG. 11 illustrates further examples of proportional display
arrangements incorporated into single display-type machines.
[0109] FIG. 12 illustrates proportional display arrangements
incorporated into dual or multiple display machines.
[0110] FIG. 13 illustrates a proportional display arrangement
incorporated into a stand alone single monitor-type machine.
[0111] FIG. 14 illustrates a proportional display arrangement
incorporated into a stand alone dual or multiple display
machine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0112] It is an object of the present invention to offer increased
interest in the playing of gaming machines by the conferring of
non-monetary prizes as jackpot prizes. Non-monetary prizes
according to at least some preferred embodiments of the invention
may consist of bonus games or items of perceived value, or a
combination of these. Items of perceived value may range for
example from small appliances through major household goods,
holiday travel and accommodation to cars and so forth.
First Preferred Embodiment
Stand--Alone Machine
[0113] A first preferred embodiment of the invention will now be
described with reference to FIG. 1 in which a stand-alone
electronic gaming machine 10 is provided with a single graphic
display screen 11, either in the form of a cathode ray tube (CRT)
or liquid crystal display (LCD), plasma display or back projection
system, for the playing of any of one or more base games offered by
the machine. Indicia indicating at least one jackpot prize to be
won may be displayed on a segment 12 of the main graphic display.
This segment 12 may be visible at all times or only intermittently,
such as for example between successive plays of a main game. The
conferring of any jackpot prize is dependent on predetermined
outcomes of a base game.
[0114] In at least some forms of this embodiment of the invention,
more than one jackpot level may be offered. Thus for example three
levels of jackpot may be offered in the form of multiples of bonus
games or other non-monetary prizes as outlined above. In this
particular example, the first jackpot level being the lowest in
value may indicate a number of bonus games incrementing between a
minimum number of games and a maximum as play proceeds on the base
game. The second jackpot level may then for example be dedicated to
a range of items of perceived value with the top level of jackpot
reserved for major non-monetary prizes. Each jackpot level may be
triggered by at least one winning outcome of the main game. This
outcome, or these outcomes may also be displayed in the jackpot
segment 12 of the main screen 11.
[0115] Where the jackpot win offers a number of bonus games, these
may be offered as free plays of the base game or may be offered in
the form of special bonus games. Bonus games may be arranged with
their own system of conferring prizes. Where bonus games are free
plays of the main game they will offer additional opportunities to
win payouts associated with the main game. Alternatively, bonus
games may offer potential wins in the higher levels of the
non-monetary prizes.
[0116] Base game outcomes may be of the so-called symbol-driven
type wherein a base game consisting of a plurality of spinning
wheels with indicia arranged peripherally are sequentially arrested
indicate a winning combination of indicia. Alternatively the
trigger for a jackpot win may occur according to the so-called
random mystery method.
[0117] Preferably in at least some forms of the present embodiment,
a jackpot value may increase incrementally as a function of the
volume of play or turnover preceding the triggering of a jackpot
through a winning outcome of the base game. Such incrementing of a
jackpot value may apply to both bonus game type jackpot prizes and
items of perceived value jackpots. Thus in the case of items of
perceived value jackpots, by way of example, a jackpot may have a
base prize consisting of a small domestic appliance such as a
toaster, but may progress through a microwave, a stereo system to a
washing machine and so forth. With each incrementing of the
jackpot, the new prize, be it in the form of bonus games or a
higher level of item of perceived value, will be displayed to the
player of the base game in the jackpot screen segment.
Second Preferred Embodiment
Stand--Alone Machine with Top-Box Graphic Display
[0118] In a second preferred embodiment of the invention with
reference to FIG. 2, a stand alone electronic gaming machine 20 is
provided with a top box 21 containing a secondary graphic display
22 in addition to the main or primary screen 23 of the gaming
machine. This secondary graphic display also may be either in the
form of a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD),
plasma display or back projection system. In this embodiment the
primary display is devoted to the playing of a base game while the
top box secondary graphic display is devoted to matters relating to
the non-monetary jackpot or jackpots. Thus the secondary graphic
display may indicate the jackpot/s offered including the current
value or values. Bonus games where offered by a jackpot may also be
played on the secondary graphic display under the control of the
machine's processor.
[0119] While a machine is unattended by a player, the secondary
graphic display may alternate between the jackpot/s value display
and attractor images and/or animations, such as for example showing
a sequence of images of the items of perceived value which may be
won or the range of bonus games.
[0120] As in the first preferred embodiment described above, in at
least one preferred form of this embodiment also, the value of any
jackpot may increase incrementally between a base value and a
maximum value as a function of the volume of play of the base
game.
Third Preferred Embodiment
Linked Machines
[0121] With reference to FIG. 3 in a third preferred embodiment of
the invention a number of electronic gaming machines 30 may be
interlinked by means of site control module 31. In this embodiment
each machine 32 is provided with a single main graphic display 33
for playing the base game offered on the machines with provision
for a segment 34 of the graphic display to provide a player of the
machine with information of possible jackpot/s as described in the
first preferred embodiment above.
[0122] In this embodiment also the jackpot prizes may be in the
form of bonus games or other non-monetary prizes and with the
number of bonus games and items of perceived value prizes
incrementing in number and value between predetermined minimum and
maximum values. However in this embodiment it is the aggregate
value of play on the linked machines which determines the
incrementing of the value of the jackpot prizes. Each player on an
active machine will be made aware of the jackpot values, either by
a continual display in the segment of the main graphic display or
intermittently between plays of the base game on each machine.
[0123] When the outcome of a base game on a particular machine
triggers a win of one of the jackpot prizes, all players on the
remaining machines will be alerted to the win by suitable displays
on their jackpot display screen segment.
[0124] During play of base games on the linked machines, the site
control module receives turn-over data from each machine and
continually transmits updated aggregated turn-over values back to
the individual game control processor of each machine. At each
sufficient increase in this value, each machine control processor
converts the new aggregated turn-over value either into an
incremented number of bonus games for a bonus game jackpot, or into
a display of the next item in the sequence of items of perceived
value.
[0125] In at least one preferred form of this embodiment the
probability of winning a jackpot non-monetary prize may be biased
towards the machine with the highest accrued turnover.
[0126] When a jackpot triggering outcome occurs as a result of play
of a base game on a particular machine that machine notifies the
site controller of the "hit". The controller acknowledges the hit
event and resets the aggregated turn-over value back to a base
level from where it again begins to accumulate as base games
continue to be played.
[0127] Where the jackpot won confers a number of bonus games, the
winning machine's processor sets the main graphic display to
progressively allow play of the bonus games.
Fourth Preferred Embodiment
Linked Machines with Individual Top-Boxes
[0128] In this preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 4 a group of
machines 40 is linked to a site control module 41 in the manner
described in the third preferred embodiment and the process of
jackpot display, incrementing of jackpot values, and the triggering
of a jackpot remain the same. However the jackpot value displays,
playing of bonus games and the display of any associated attracting
images or animations are in this embodiment displayed in a separate
secondary graphic display 42 in the top box of each machine 43.
Fifth Preferred Embodiment
Linked Machines with Common Top-Box, Individual Graphic Display
Modules
[0129] In a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention as shown in
FIG. 5, all aspects of the interaction of a site controller 51 with
individual machines 52, the playing of games and the display of
jackpot related material remains the same as for the fourth
embodiment described above, but in this embodiment the secondary
graphic display 53 for each machine 52 is accommodated in a common
top-box 55 mounted across the top of the group of machines 50.
[0130] As well, in at least one form of the present embodiment the
imagery shown in each secondary graphic display 53 may act
cooperatively under the control of a particular machine when that
machine achieves a jackpot triggering outcome. This may take the
form of an animation sequence for example drawing the attention of
the other players of machines in the group to the winning machine
and the nature of the jackpot prize won.
Specific Example of a Preferred Embodiment
Overview
[0131] This preferred embodiment comprises a 3 level progressive
link where bonus games or other non-monetary prizes are awarded to
a player and where progressive link triggering is based on
predetermined winning combinations of a main game.
[0132] The link consists of a plurality of electronic gaming
machines provided with a large common top box, mounted on top of
the machines. FIG. 6 shows a particular example of this embodiment
in which five machines 60 share common top box 61 and are linked to
a site controller 63. The top box 61 contains 5 secondary graphic
displays 62 each controlled by a graphic display controller module
(GDCM). The secondary graphic displays may be in the form of a
cathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma
screens or a back projection system for example. The secondary
graphic displays 62 are used to display the potential jackpots to
be won in each of the three levels, thus the current progressive
bonus games amount/s and the higher levels of non-monetary prizes.
The secondary graphic displays will also indicate the winning of a
jackpot, what that win is, and allow the playing of bonus game/s.
During periods of non-play on a machine the display shows
attraction animations, etc.
[0133] In at least one preferred form of this embodiment as
illustrated in FIG. 6, the secondary graphic displays 62 are
mounted in close coupled format without individual surround framing
so as to allow a continuous graphic image flow across any
combination of the displays.
Software
Link Overview
[0134] FIG. 7 which shows a flow diagram of the interaction between
one of the five gaming machines 60 with the site controller 63
which maintains soft meters for each machine. The base game being
played on the machine 60 transmits turnover amounts to the site
controller 63 via an Rs232 serial link 64. Communication between
the game processor, its progressive controller module 65 and the
site controller 63 is via a suitable protocol, such as for example
the QCOM protocol. The current updated amount, is transmitted via
the link 64 to the gaming machine progressive control module 65 and
converted into bonus games 66 (or into references for particular
items of perceived value). The bonus games are then transferred to
a graphic display bonus meter 67 via a 2-way Rs422 link 68 between
the machine processor and the graphic display controller. In the
case of an item of perceived value jackpot the reference is used to
display an image of the item.
[0135] The site controller supports 3 levels of jackpot with each
level defined by a predetermined range of bonus games or range of
items of perceived value, calculated on sliding scales according to
turnover value.
[0136] The triggering of a jackpot is by a winning combination in
the base game. There may be more than one winning combination for
each jackpot level. When a jackpot-winning combination is hit in
the base game the site controller is notified by the machine
processor. Confirmation from the site controller (i.e The Linked
Progressive Award Acknowledged poll) is then transmitted to the
progressive controller module of the machine.
Jackpot Conversions
[0137] The basic premise of the link is that for bonus game
jackpots, progressive amounts are converted into a number of bonus
games which are played in the secondary graphic display. Normal
game play will still be available while a bonus game is being
played.
[0138] The monetary value of the progressive amount is treated as
the average prize paid for a number of bonus or free games. For
example, if for 10 free games the average amount won is $20, and if
the site controller is configured as "Start Up"=$20, with a
"Limit"=$50 the conversion table would look like:
TABLE-US-00001 $ Value No. Of Games $20 10 $23 11 $26 12 $29 13 $32
14 $35 15 $38 16 $41 17 $44 18 $47 19 $50 20
[0139] When the broadcast progressive values are received they are
converted by the progressive controller module to the calculated
number of games and this number is then used for displaying current
bonus game meters in the secondary graphic display of the top box
as well as playing the actual number of bonus games.
[0140] Similar conversion tables may be constructed for items of
perceived value jackpots. The progressive controller module in this
case converts the progressive values of current turnover value
received from the site controller into a corresponding reference to
an item of perceived value and causes the secondary graphic display
to show images of that item.
[0141] With reference to FIG. 9 there is illustrated an arrangement
whereby a player can be informed by way of a proportional display
as to how close the item of perceived value (in this case, free
games) is to being incremented. So, for example, if the normal
progressive pays only dollar values ($110 dollars in the example)
then the dollar values 112 correspond to the number of free games
displayed in the progressive display 111 while the cents values 113
correspond to the reading on the bar display 110 located, in this
instance, next to the progressive display 111.
[0142] The proportional display 109 in this case in the form of the
bar display 110, gradually increases the dimension of its coloured
part 114 until it reaches its full extent at which time the number
of free games will increment by one and the bar display 110 will
revert to its minimum length in order to commence elongating again
as the cents value 113 increments with game play.
[0143] In the example of FIG. 9, the maximum number of free games
that will be awarded is twelve. Hence, when the progressive display
111 reaches 12 free games the cents value 113 will be transferred
to the next progressive game. It will be observed that the
proportional display 109 provides a markedly different mechanism
for communicating to the player progress towards an increment in
the number of items of perceived value available to the player.
[0144] In reference to FIG. 10, an alternative proportional display
is illustrated, in this instance, in a clock style having a single
pointer 113 adapted to rotate across designated sectors 114 of the
clock style display 115. In this instance, each designated sector
114 corresponds to a given number of free games available to the
player.
[0145] Each designated sector 114 is bounded by a sector boundary
116A 116B. As illustrated in inset A of FIG. 10, the pointer 113
moves from the first boundary, 116A towards second boundary 116B.
The closer it is to the second boundary 116B the closer the player
is to having the number of free games incremented to the value
shown in the next designated sector. It will be appreciated that
the pointer 113 by its proportional proximity to a sector boundary
is a proportional indication to a player of progress towards an
increment in the number of items of value (in this case, free
games) to be awarded or made available.
[0146] With reference to FIG. 11, the single display linked machine
arrangement of FIG. 3, can have incorporated into the or each
single display at a designated location 117, one or more of the
proportional displays 109a, 109b, 109c, 109d, or 109e as
illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0147] FIG. 12 illustrates a similar arrangement as FIG. 11 except
applied to the dual or multiple display machines of FIG. 4 wherein
the designated location 118 occupies a portion of secondary graphic
display 42 in the top box of each machine 43.
[0148] FIG. 13 illustrates a proportional display arrangement
incorporated into a stand alone single monitor-type machine.
[0149] FIG. 14 illustrates a proportional display arrangement
incorporated into a stand alone dual or multiple display
machine.
[0150] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of the sequence of events attending
the triggering of a jackpot by one of the gaming machines 60. A hit
event signal is then firstly transmitted to the progressive control
module 65 which firstly notifies the site controller 63 of the hit
and the level of the triggering combination. It then activates a
hit animation via link 68 for display on the secondary graphic
display 62 of the winning machine 60 and may also cause appropriate
animations to be displayed on the other machines 62n in the group
of five.
[0151] The site controller 63 acknowledges the hit and transmits
the turnover value amount as recorded by it at the hit event. The
progressive controller module 65 converts this value into the
appropriate number of bonus games (or causes the graphic display to
indicate an item of perceived value jackpot which may be claimed by
the player).
[0152] Bonus game play is enabled by the progressive controller
module 65 and the player sequentially plays these. During this
interval the hit animation may continue to be shown on the winning
machine secondary graphic display and optionally on the other
machine displays as well. When the sequence of bonus game play is
completed, the animations are terminated and the displays will
revert to show either accumulating bonus game or other non-monetary
prize indications.
[0153] The site controller is notified by the progressive
controller module that the bonus game sequence is complete thus
resetting the meter for that machine.
Graphic Display Controller (GDC)
[0154] The GDC is completely controlled from the gaming machine
software, as the GDC has no backup ram.
[0155] It is controlled via a 2-way Rs422 link between the gaming
machine and graphic display using a similar protocol to the
"WildFire" progressive game protocol currently used in QLD and
NSW.
[0156] The secondary graphic display is used for displaying: [0157]
1. The three current potential jackpot prizes, [0158] 2. Bonus Game
Play; reel stops sent from the gaming machine, [0159] 3. Jackpot
Hit Animations; played when jackpot is triggered, [0160] 4. Idle
Attraction animations--displayed during no action from the gaming
machine.
[0161] The facility for synchronising hit animations flowing across
adjoining graphic display screens is achieved using a simple 1 way
serial link between the graphic display controllers. When a GDC
receives a HIT command poll from its gaming machine it will send
out a HIT poll to the graphic display screen, which will then
display the HIT animation.
[0162] The above describes only some embodiments of the present
invention and modifications, obvious to those skilled in the art,
can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of
the present invention.
* * * * *