U.S. patent application number 12/272613 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-05 for mechanical reels with interactive display and related methods.
Invention is credited to Christopher Ray England, John Edward Garofalo, JR., Christopher Paul Noll, Kolth Rucker, Micheal L. Shackelford, John Vallejo.
Application Number | 20090275386 12/272613 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41257457 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090275386 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vallejo; John ; et
al. |
November 5, 2009 |
MECHANICAL REELS WITH INTERACTIVE DISPLAY AND RELATED METHODS
Abstract
Methods for enhancing a mechanical reel game are disclosed.
According to one method, a game is initiated by spinning a
plurality of mechanical reels in response to a player wager,
wherein each mechanical reel has a plurality of game symbols. The
gaming machine ascertains whether a triggering event is established
during the game. In response to a triggering event, one or more
video images are presented and overlay one or more the mechanical
reels to obscure the game symbols on the mechanical reels in
response to the triggering event. In one embodiment, the video
images include one or more video depictions of game symbols. The
mechanical reels obscured by the video images are fixed, and the
mechanical reels not obscured by the video images are spun. One or
more paylines are evaluated for winning outcomes based on the
combination of the video depictions of game symbols and the game
symbols presented on the mechanical reels on the one or more
paylines. A bonus prize is awarded for a winning outcome appearing
on a payline.
Inventors: |
Vallejo; John; (Henderson,
NV) ; Shackelford; Micheal L.; (Henderson, NV)
; Noll; Christopher Paul; (Las Vegas, NV) ;
England; Christopher Ray; (Las Vegas, NV) ; Rucker;
Kolth; (Las Vegas, NV) ; Garofalo, JR.; John
Edward; (Las Vegas, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STEPTOE & JOHNSON, LLP
2121 AVENUE OF THE STARS, SUITE 2800
LOS ANGELES
CA
90067
US
|
Family ID: |
41257457 |
Appl. No.: |
12/272613 |
Filed: |
November 17, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12113112 |
Apr 30, 2008 |
|
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12272613 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3265 20130101;
G07F 17/3211 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method for enhancing a mechanical reel game, the method
comprising: initiating a game by spinning a plurality of mechanical
reels in response to a player wager, the mechanical reels having a
plurality of game symbols; ascertaining whether a triggering event
is established during the game; presenting one or more video images
overlaying one or more the mechanical reels to obscure the game
symbols on the mechanical reels in response to the triggering
event, the video images including one or more video depictions of
game symbols; fixing the mechanical reels obscured by the video
images and spinning the mechanical reels not obscured by the video
images; evaluating one or more paylines for winning outcomes based
on the combination of the video depictions of game symbols and the
game symbols presented on the mechanical reels on the one or more
paylines; and awarding a bonus prize for a winning outcome
appearing on a payline.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the video depictions of game
symbols are wild symbols.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the triggering event is a
predetermined game outcome, a special game symbol appearing on a
payline, receiving a player tracking card at a gaming machine,
duration of play, frequency of play, number of maximum bets, number
of player points earned, or any combination thereof.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein placement of the video images
over the mechanical reels is randomly selected by the game.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein player input determines placement
of the video images over the mechanical reels.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein a player attribute determines
placement of the video images over the mechanical reels.
7. A method for enhancing a mechanical reel game having a video
display and a plurality of mechanical reels, the method comprising:
initiating a game by spinning the plurality of mechanical reels in
response to a player wager, the mechanical reels having a plurality
of game symbols; ascertaining whether a triggering event is
established during the game; and initiating a bonus game in
response to the triggering event, wherein the bonus game comprises:
obscuring one or more mechanical reels with one or more video
images; fixing the mechanical reels obscured by the video images
and spinning the mechanical reels not obscured by the video images;
and awarding a bonus prize for a winning outcome appearing on a
payline during the bonus game.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the video images further include
video depictions of game symbols, wild symbols, or a combination
thereof.
9. The method of claim 7, wherein the triggering event is a
predetermined game outcome, a special game symbol appearing on a
payline, receiving a player tracking card at a gaming machine,
duration of play, frequency of play, number of maximum bets, number
of player points earned, or any combination thereof.
10. The method of claim 7, wherein placement of the video images
over the mechanical reels is randomly selected by the game.
11. The method of claim 7, wherein player input determines
placement of the video images over the mechanical reels.
12. The method of claim 7, wherein a player attribute determines
placement of the video images over the mechanical reels.
13. The method of claim 7, wherein the bonus game comprises a
plurality of spins of the mechanical reels not obscured by the by
the video images.
14. A method for enhancing a mechanical reel game having a video
display positioned over a plurality of mechanical reels, the method
comprising: ascertaining whether a triggering event is established
during a gaming session; in response to the triggering event,
selecting one or more locations for one or more video images on the
video display for obscuring one or more mechanical reels underlying
the video images, the video images further including one or more
video depictions of game symbols; presenting one or more video
images on the video display at the selected locations; spinning
those mechanical reels not obscured by the video image; and
evaluating one or more paylines for winning outcomes based on the
combination of the video depictions of game symbols and the game
symbols presented on the mechanical reels on the one or more
paylines; and awarding a bonus prize for a winning outcome
appearing on a payline.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the triggering event is a
predetermined game outcome, a special game symbol appearing on a
payline, receiving a player tracking card at a gaming machine,
duration of play, frequency of play, number of maximum bets, number
of player points earned, or any combination thereof.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the selection of the location
of the video images is based on a player characteristic including a
player level, number of player points, number of maximum wagers,
duration of the gaming session, amount wagered during the gaming
session, frequency of play during the gaming session, or a
combination thereof.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein the location of the video
images is randomly selected by a gaming device.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein the selection of the location
of the one or more video images is based on player input.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/113,112, filed on Apr. 30, 2008, entitled
MECHANICAL REELS WITH INTERACTIVE DISPLAY. U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/113,112 is also related to co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/113,104 concurrently filed on Apr. 30,
2008, entitled METHOD FOR INTERACTING A DISPLAY WITH MECHANICAL
REELS.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to a system
for enhancing a mechanical reel game.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Gaming machines have been developed having various features
to capture and maintain player interest. Traditionally, gaming
machines garner player interest by providing the player with the
opportunity to win cash awards based upon a player's wager.
Accordingly, various types of games or game features have been
developed to provide players with the opportunity to win large sums
of money for a small wager. For example, games may include one or
more bonus games or the opportunity to win progressive jackpots in
order to maintain player interest.
[0004] Additionally, over the years, gaming machines have grown in
sophistication and features to maintain player interest. For
example, the mechanical reels of traditional gaming machines have
been replaced with video depictions of spinning reels. These video
gaming machines provide a richer gaming experience for players by
including graphics or animation as part of the game. Nevertheless,
mechanical gaming machines continue to be successful even though
there are physical limitations as to the features that may be
provided on a mechanical gaming machine. Accordingly, there is a
continuing need for mechanical slot machine variants to provide a
player with enhanced excitement without departing from the original
slot machine gaming concept.
SUMMARY
[0005] Briefly, and in general terms, various embodiments are
directed to a system for enhancing a mechanical reel game. In one
embodiment, a gaming machine, comprises a display area having a
video screen, and the video screen includes a touch screen. A set
of mechanical reels are positioned behind the video screen. One or
more stepper motors are operatively coupled to the mechanical
reels, wherein the stepper motors independently spin each
mechanical reel. A game controller is operatively connected to the
one or more stepper motors and generates a game outcome and
determines a spin duration for each of the mechanical reels. A user
interface is displayed on the video screen and is configured to
receive user input to rearrange the placement order of the
mechanical reels, and wherein the video screen displays the
mechanical reels in the rearranged order.
[0006] Another embodiment is directed to a gaming machine
comprising a display area having a video screen including a touch
screen. A set of mechanical reels positioned behind the video
screen and one or more stepper motors are operatively coupled to
the mechanical reels and independently spin each reel. A game
controller is operatively connected to the stepper motors. the game
controller generates a game outcome and determines a spin duration
for each of the mechanical reels. A user interface is displayed on
the video screen and is configured to receive user input requesting
to rearrange the placement of one or more symbols on at least one
mechanical reel. The video screen displays the mechanical reels and
the rearranged symbols.
[0007] In addition to gaming machines and gaming systems, various
methods for enhancing a mechanical reel game are disclosed herein.
According to one method, a game is initiated by spinning a
plurality of mechanical reels in response to a player wager,
wherein each mechanical reel has a plurality of game symbols. The
gaming machine ascertains whether a triggering event is established
during the game. In response to a triggering event, one or more
video images are presented and overlay one or more the mechanical
reels to obscure the game symbols on the mechanical reels in
response to the triggering event. In one embodiment, the video
images include one or more video depictions of game symbols. The
mechanical reels obscured by the video images are fixed, and the
mechanical reels not obscured by the video images are spun. One or
more paylines are evaluated for winning outcomes based on the
combination of the video depictions of game symbols and the game
symbols presented on the mechanical reels on the one or more
paylines. A bonus prize is awarded for a winning outcome appearing
on a payline. Other features and advantages 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 various embodiments.
[0008] In another method, a game is initiated by spinning the
plurality of mechanical reels having a plurality of game symbols in
response to a player wager. The gaming machine ascertains whether a
triggering event is established during the game. In response to a
triggering event, a bonus game is initiated. According to one
embodiment of the bonus game, one or more mechanical reels are
obscured with one or more video images. The unobscured mechanical
reels are spun while the obscured mechanical reels are not spun. A
bonus prize is awarded for any winning outcome appearing on a
payline during the bonus game.
[0009] In yet another method, the game ascertains whether a
triggering event is established during a gaming session. In
response to the triggering event, one or more locations are
selected for one or more video images that obscure one or more
mechanical reels underlying the video images. According to one
embodiment, the video images further including one or more video
depictions of game symbols. The video images are then presented on
the video display at the selected locations. Those mechanical reels
not obscured by the video image are then spun, and one or more
paylines are evaluated for winning outcomes. The winning outcomes
are based on the combination of the video depictions of game
symbols and the game symbols presented on the mechanical reels on
the one or more paylines. A bonus prize is awarded for any winning
outcomes appearing on a payline.
[0010] Other features and advantages 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 various embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
mechanical gaming machine with an interactive video screen.
[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a
mechanical gaming machine with an interactive video screen.
[0013] FIG. 3 is an alternate perspective of a mechanical gaming
machine with an interactive video screen.
[0014] FIG. 4 is an example illustration of one embodiment of a
mechanical gaming machine with an interactive video screen.
[0015] FIG. 5 is another example illustration of an embodiment of a
mechanical gaming machine with an interactive video screen.
[0016] FIG. 6A is an example illustration of an interactive video
screen and a mechanical reel game.
[0017] FIG. 6B is another example illustration of an interactive
video screen and a mechanical reel game.
[0018] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of an interactive
video screen and a mechanical reel game.
[0019] FIG. 8 is an schematic diagram of a casino gaming
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] The present system and method are directed to enhancing a
mechanical reel game. In particular, a video screen is positioned
on a gaming cabinet so that one or more mechanical reels may be
visible through the video screen. Additionally, the video screen is
configured to interact with the mechanical reels to enhance game
play.
[0021] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals denote like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings
and, more particularly to FIGS. 1-7, there are shown various
embodiments of an enhanced mechanical gaming machine having an
interactive display.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, an example embodiment of an enhanced
gaming machine 10 is illustrated. The gaming machine 10 includes a
display area 2. In one embodiment, the display area 2 is a viewing
area that displays a plurality of mechanical reels 20 positioned
within a gaming cabinet 16.
[0023] Three mechanical reels 20 are shown in the gaming machine 10
of FIG. 1, however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
any number of mechanical reels may be used in the gaming machine
10. The mechanical reels 20 include one or more indicia (or
symbols) 22 on the outer surface of each mechanical reel 20.
[0024] In one embodiment, the mechanical reels 20 function as a
slot-style game. The mechanical reels 20 spin about an axis and
then stop to display a resulting combination of symbols in the
display area 2. Generally, payouts are awarded based on the
occurrence of a winning combination of symbols. The payout values
awarded for the winning combinations will vary and are defined by
the game creator. The payout schedule is typically either posted on
the gaming machine, or is available to the game player upon
request.
[0025] Referring to FIG. 2, the mechanical reels 20 of the gaming
machine 10 are operatively coupled to stepper motors 30 which are
responsible for spinning and stopping the mechanical reels 20. The
stepper motors 30 of the gaming machine 10 are controlled and
monitored by the reel control unit 28 (RCU 28). More specifically,
the RCU 28 is responsible for determining a spin profile for each
reel 20. In order to determine the appropriate spin profile, the
RCU 28 calculates the distance between the current and final
position of each mechanical reel 20. Based upon the spin distance
and the desired spin duration of each reel, the RCU 28 then
determines a spin profile for each mechanical reel 20. The spin
profiles provide the stepper motors 30 with the number and duration
of motor steps for each reel spin.
[0026] The RCU 28 is in communication with the game controller 22.
The game controller 22 is a combination of hardware and software
components that supports the game for a gaming machine 10 or a
group of gaming machines 10. The game controller 22 is configured
to support the game and may be responsible for the various
functions of the gaming machine 10, such as, but not limited to,
monitoring coin-in, coin-out, or credit meters, and awarding any
prize(s) based upon the game result. The game controller 22 also
generates the game outcome (i.e., the final stopping position for
each reel) and is responsible for determining the desired spin
duration for each reel 12. As those skilled in the art will
appreciate, any of these functions may be separated into different
or logical units and do not have to exist in a single controller
unit.
[0027] In one embodiment, the game controller 32 includes a random
number generator 34 that determines a game outcome, wherein the
game outcome is a combination of indicia (or symbols). In alternate
embodiments, the game controller 32 may use a pseudo-random number
generator or a weighted random number generator to determine the
game outcome. In yet another embodiment, the random number
generator 34 (or pseudo-random number generator or weighted random
number generator) is a separate component in communication with the
game controller 32.
[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the RCU 28 and the game controller 32
are separate components located within the gaming machine 10. As
those skilled in the art will appreciate, the RCU 28 may be
interconnected to the game controller 32 by a USB connection, a
wireless network connection, or any other means for operatively
coupling components together. In an alternate embodiment, the RCU
28 and the game controller 32 are integral components (not shown).
In yet another embodiment, the RCU 28 and the game controller 32
may be located within the gaming machine 10, but the functions of
the RCU or the game controller may be carried out at a central
location (not shown), such as a network server, and communicated to
each gaming machine by a local area network, wireless network, wide
area network, or the like.
[0029] Referring back to FIG. 1, a video screen 4 is positioned in
the display area 2 over the mechanical reels 20. In some
embodiments, the video screen 4 is a LCD (liquid crystal display)
in which the back panels have been removed thereby allowing the
mechanical reels 20 to be visible through the video screen 4. In
alternate embodiments, the video screen is an OLED (organic
light-emitting diode) based display, an electroluminescent display
(ELD), electronic paper display, or any other video screen display
technology known or developed in the art. Those skilled in the art
will appreciate that additional types of video screen devices may
be used
[0030] FIG. 3 is provides an alternate perspective of the gaming
machine and illustrates one example of the positioning of the video
screen in relation to the mechanical reels 20. Additionally, the
video screen 4 may be positioned in either a portrait or landscape
orientation and utilize standard or widescreen dimensions.
[0031] In various embodiments, the video screen 4 also includes a
touch screen or touch glass system (not shown). The touch screen
system enhances the player's ability to interact with the
mechanical reels 20 via the video screen 4. For example, in various
embodiments, the touch screen system serves as a user input
mechanism and allows the user to enter requests and selections via
the user interface provided on the touch screen.
[0032] Additionally, the gaming machine 10 may include additional
types of input mechanisms. In one embodiment, the gaming machine 10
may include a plurality of player-activated buttons 18, which may
be used for numerous functions such as, but not limited to,
selecting a wager denomination, selecting a number of games to be
played, selecting a wager amount per game, initiating a game, or
cashing out money from the gaming machine 10. The buttons 18
function as input mechanisms and may include mechanical buttons,
electromechanical buttons or touch screen buttons. Optionally,
handle 19 may also serve as an input mechanism. More particularly,
the handle 19 may be "pulled" by a player to initiate a game.
Additionally, the various input mechanisms may be used to activate
the mechanical reels 20 and/or the video screen 4.
[0033] In another embodiment, one input mechanism is a universal
button module (not shown) that provides a dynamic button system
adaptable for use with various games, as disclosed in U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/106,212, entitled "Universal Button
Module," filed Apr. 14, 2005 and U.S. application Ser. No.
11/223,364, entitled "Universal Button Module," filed Sep. 9, 2005,
which are both hereby incorporated by reference. Additionally,
other input devices, such as but not limited to, touch pad, track
ball, mouse, switches, toggle switches, are included with the
gaming machine to also accept player input.
[0034] In various embodiments, the touch screen system together
with the video screen 4 provide a user interface for receiving user
input. For example, as noted above, the touch screen system and the
video screen 4 may provide simulated buttons that mimic the
functions of the traditional button panel found on some gaming
machines. In particular, the touch screen system and video screen 4
may provide a user interface that allows a game player to place a
bet, enter the amount or wager, place a max bet, initiate a game,
select a wager denomination, select a number of paylines to bet,
spin the wheels, and/or to cash out from a game. Additionally, in
another embodiment, the touch screen system together with the video
screen 4 allows the game player to stop one or more mechanical
wheels 20 from spinning once the game has started.
[0035] More particularly, in one embodiment, once the game player
activates a game, the mechanical wheels 20 begin to spin. In one
embodiment, the video screen 4 provides one or more buttons to stop
the spinning wheels. Referring to FIG. 4, buttons 401a, 401b and
401c are provided on the video screen 4 and appear to be positioned
under each of the mechanical reels 20a, 20b and 20c, respectively.
As the mechanical reels 20 spin, the game player may select one or
more of the buttons 401a, 401b and 401c to stop the spinning of the
corresponding mechanical reel 20.
[0036] In an alternate embodiment, an area on the video screen 4
directly overlaying the mechanical reel may be "touched" in order
to halt the spinning of a rotating reel. Referring to FIG. 5,
activation areas 402a, 402b and 402c are configured to correspond
to the mechanical reels 20a, 20b and 20c, respectively. For
example, during game play, the game player may touch anywhere
within the defined boundary of the activation area 402a to stop the
spinning of mechanical reel 20a. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that activation areas 402b and 402c function in a
similar manner.
[0037] In one example embodiment, once the mechanical reels 20
begin to spin, the game player may choose to stop the spinning of
one or more of the mechanical reels 20, as discussed above. In one
example, the game player selects the activation area 402a. The game
player's touch on the activation area 402a is detected by the touch
screen system and a signal is sent to the game controller 32. The
game controller 32 receives the request initiated by the game
player to stop the mechanical reel 20a. The game controller 32 then
sends a signal to the RCU28. The RCU28 receives the signal and
sends a command to the stepper motor 30 to stop the mechanical reel
20a, and the mechanical reel 20 will then halt.
[0038] In an optional embodiment, the video screen 4, in
combination with the touch screen system, allows a player to select
one or more mechanical reels for game play. For example, in one
embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes five mechanical reels
(not shown). The game player may select three of the five
mechanical reels for game play. The mechanical reels are selected
via the touch screen, wherein the game player merely touches the
area of the video screen 4 overlaying the mechanical reels that the
game player wishes to employ for the game. Optionally, in an
alternate embodiment the game player selects, via the touch screen,
those mechanical reels that the player does not want to use in the
game.
[0039] Optionally, in some embodiments, the video screen 4 includes
a filter or a screen to block out, or hide from the player's view,
the mechanical reels that were not selected for game play. In an
alternate embodiment, the selected reels are allowed to spin, and
the non-selected reels are "grayed" out. In an optional embodiment,
the game player may black out specific reel positions on one or
more mechanical reels via the video screen 4.
[0040] In an alternate embodiment, the video screen 4 may be used
to rearrange, or reorder the mechanical reels. For example, in one
scenario the game player places a bet and the mechanical reels 20
spin. Once the spinning concludes, the game outcome is revealed to
the player. In one embodiment, the game player may rearrange the
placement order of the reels 20 via the user interface provided on
the video screen 4. Rearranging the placement order of the
mechanical reels 20 increases the game player's chances of
achieving a winning combination and/or of achieving a winning
combination with a higher payout. Referring to FIG. 6a, the
resulting game outcome (i.e., the symbol combinations resulting
from the mechanical reel spin) are shown in the display area 2. To
earn a payout award, the game player may choose to swap the order
of mechanical reel 20b and mechanical reel 20c, as shown in FIG.
2b. This "swap" yields the winning combination of "7=7" in the
first payline. Note that prior to rearranging the mechanical reels
20b and 20c, the combination in the first payline was "7 7=" which
is typically not a winning combination and is not awarded a
payout.
[0041] Optionally, in another embodiment, the game player is
allowed to rearrange, or reorder the placement of symbols on at
least one of the mechanical reels 20. Similar to the above the
described scenario, the touch screen user interface on the video
screen 4 is used to facilitate the rearrangement.
[0042] In various embodiments, the video screen 4 provides graphics
to further enhance the mechanical reel game. For example, the video
screen 4 may also be used to note paylines, help screens and
denominations. In one example embodiment, when a particular
mechanic reel symbol is touched, on the touch glass of the video
screen 4, the associated pay table is displayed on the video screen
4. Additionally, the video screen 4 may display an associated
paytable upon receiving a request from a game player. In another
embodiment, a user may touch a symbol or bet tag to see a payline.
The payline is then drawn across the video screen 4.
[0043] In another example, interactive help screens may be
displayed on the video screen 4 over the mechanical reels 20. A
game player may, via a user input mechanism, request interactive
help screens. In one embodiment, the help screens may be requested
via the user interface provided by the touch screen system on the
video screen 4.
[0044] In another embodiment, a user may touch the video screen 4
to change the denominations of the mechanical reel game.
[0045] Additionally, in an optionally embodiment, the video screen
4 also displays a volatility index graphic on the screen to display
win amount results of the last twenty spins. Those skilled in the
art will appreciate that any number of results may be displayed,
for example the last 10, or last 100, etc.
[0046] In other various embodiments, the video screen 4 may provide
animated graphics to enhance the mechanical reel game. For example,
the video screen may display animation sequences based on symbols
from the mechanical reel 20. In particular, if a regular "7" on the
mechanical reel 20 is part of a winning combination, then the "7"
may be displayed on the video screen 4 as an animated "7" on fire.
In some embodiments, during the animation presentation, the "7" on
the mechanical reel may be blocked from view. In another example
embodiment, after a winning combination occurs on the mechanical
reels 20, a celebratory animation is displayed on the video screen
4.
[0047] The video screen 4, in some embodiments, may also cycle
through text displayed above/over mechanical reels (e.g., "Game
Name," "Bonus," "Winner," etc.). In another embodiment, the video
screen 4 displays anticipation visuals, or color changes on the
screen around the border of mechanical reels 20 to indicate an
impending win.
[0048] In optional embodiments, the video screen 4 provides virtual
pay lines and/or reels. For example, in one embodiment, the video
screen 4 provides virtual positions to be used in conjunctions with
each mechanical reel 20. The virtual positions yield additional
paylines. For example, in one embodiment, the video screen 4
provides two virtual positions for each mechanical reel 20. If each
mechanical reel 20 has three display positions (top, middle,
bottom), then the video screen 4 may also provide a virtual
position above the top reel position and one below the bottom
position, thereby creating two additional virtual positions for
reach reel 20.
[0049] In another embodiment, the video screen 4 may provide one or
more full virtual reels to be used in conjunction with the
mechanical reels 20. For example, in one embodiment, the gaming
machine includes three mechanical reels 20. The video screen 4 may
provide two virtual reels, so that the game player perceives a
total of five reels for the game.
[0050] In another embodiment, the video screen 4 changes the
dressing on the "reel frame" to indicate a new game (e.g., moving
up a level, advancing in an adventure-style game, multi-game
play).
[0051] In one embodiment, the mechanical reels 20 provide a reel
slot-style game, which functions as the primary game on the gaming
machine 10 and the video screen 4 provides a separate bonus game.
Optionally, when the bonus game is activated, the video screen 4
activates filters to block the mechanical reels 20 from view. In an
alternate embodiment, the video screen 4 functions as the primary
game on the gaming machine 10 and the mechanical reel game provides
a separate bonus game. Optionally, when the primary game is
presented on the video screen 4, filters are activated to block the
mechanical reels 20 from view.
[0052] In another embodiment, the video screen 4 and the mechanical
reels 20 function as separate gaming components. In one example
embodiment, the mechanical reels 20 provide a slot-style game on
the gaming machine 10. Immediately after the mechanical reels 20
stop spinning and provide a game result, the gaming machine 10 then
proceeds to a video slot game, by providing a video style game on
the video screen 4. During the presentation of the video game on
the video screen 4, the mechanical reels 20 are not operating. In
another embodiment, during the operation of the video game on the
video screen 4, a filter blocks one or more of the mechanical reels
20 from view.
[0053] Alternately, in another embodiment, the gaming machine 10
first provides a video style game on the video screen 4. After
conclusion of the game on the video screen 4, the gaming machine 10
then proceeds to operate as mechanical slot machine by spinning the
mechanical reels 20 and ceasing operation of the game on the video
screen 4.
[0054] In another embodiment, the gaming machine 10 is an
electronic gaming machine, and the primary games are provided on
the video screen 4. However, the mechanical reels are provided for
bonus features.
[0055] In various other embodiments, the video screen 4 may be used
for bonus features. For example, in one embodiment, the video
screen 4 presents a "pick-and-match" type bonus game, where the
player can pick from onscreen grid to match three like icons. In
another example, the video screen 4 presents a wild mystery
multiplier on its screen as part of a bonus feature. Optionally, in
another embodiment, the video screen 4 allows a game player to
select a scatter symbol for use with the mechanical reels. In
another example embodiment, the video screen 4 presents a special
dynamic bonus payline, where the bonus payline displayed on the
video screen 4 changes with each spin of mechanical reels 20.
[0056] In another embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes a
second video screen 5 placed on the gaming cabinet. In one
embodiment, the video screen 5 also has a set of mechanical reels
(not shown) located behind the video screen 5. The interaction
between video and mechanical reels in both sets can indicate
advancement in a bonus feature. For example, a winning combination
on video reels presented on video screen 4 can reveal the
mechanical reels 20 behind the video screen 4. Further, a winning
combination on the mechanical reels 20 can reveal the video reels
on the video screen 5. Further, a winning combination on the video
screen 5 can reveal the mechanical reels behind the video screen
5.
[0057] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of a gaming
machine 10 including a video screen 4 positioned over a set of
mechanical reels 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d, 30e. As shown in FIG. 7A, all
five mechanical reels 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d, 30e are used to play a
slots game. FIG. 7B shows video images 40a, 40e presented on the
video screen 4 to obscure the underlying mechanical reels 30a, 30e
and the symbols on the mechanical reels. As shown in FIG. 7B, the
video display is darkened (by presenting a gray or dark color) or
otherwise obscures the underlying mechanical reels. Additionally,
the video images 40a, 40e also include "wild" symbols that are
presented in the locations of the mechanical reel symbols. The
"wild" symbols presented on the video images 40a, 40e are used in
combination with the symbols shown on the other mechanical reels
30b, 30c, 30d in determining whether a winning outcome has occurred
on an active payline.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 7B, the video images 40a, 40e obscure all
three positions of the underlying reels. Alternatively, the video
image (not shown) may obscure less than all the symbol positions of
the underlying reels. For example, the video image may obscure one
or two symbol position on a reel. In another example, the video
image may obscure one symbol position on one or more reels.
[0059] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7B, the video shrouds 40a,
40e are positioned over the first and last mechanical reels. In
other embodiments, one or more video shrouds may be used to obscure
any of the underlying mechanical reels. The video shrouds may be
randomly placed over any of the underlying reels. In another
embodiment, a player characteristic may define the placement of the
video shroud. Optionally, a player may select the placement of the
video shroud.
[0060] FIG. 7B also shows the video shrouds having "wild" symbols
that overlay the underlying symbols of the mechanical reels. In one
embodiment, the video shroud may also include symbols that are
typically found in the mechanical reel slots game. Accordingly, the
symbols may be randomly placed on the video shroud or by player
input. In another embodiment, the video shrouds may not include any
symbols, but the video shrouds still obscure the underlying
reels.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 7B, the video images of symbols obscure
each symbol position of the underlying reel. In another embodiment,
the video shroud may include video images of symbols on less than
all the symbol positions of the underlying reel. The video images
of the symbols may be randomly placed on the reels by the gaming
processor. In another embodiment, player input may be used to
determine the location of the video images on the video shroud. In
yet another embodiment, a player characteristic or attribute may
determine the number of and/or the location of the video images on
the video shroud. For example, a VIP player may be given wild
symbols on all the reel positions. Alternatively, for a lower level
player, a wild symbol is placed on the third payline (of a three
payline game) in order to encourage or reward the lower level
player for playing a maximum number of lines.
[0062] In the previous embodiments regarding the video shrouds that
overlay the mechanical reels, the presentation and placement of the
video shrouds is based on triggering events occurring in the base
game. The triggering event may be a particular base game result
such as, but not limited to, a special symbol appearing on an
active payline or a particular combination of game symbols on an
active payline. In other embodiments, the triggering event may be
any winning outcome having a low or high probability. As those
skilled in the art will appreciate, the triggering event may be any
possible game outcome and does not necessarily have to be a winning
outcome.
[0063] Additionally, triggering events may be based upon player
activity/actions. For example, the triggering event may be based
upon player performance such as, but not limited to, inserting a
player tracking card into the gaming machine, time of play,
frequency of play (i.e., number of games played in a particular
period of time), number of maximum bets, number of player points
earned, or a combination thereof. Additionally, a triggering event
may be the player possessing a radiofrequency identification (RFID)
tag while playing a gaming machine. In these embodiments, a random
performance characteristic may be selected to cause one or more
video images to shroud one or more of the underlying mechanical
reels. For example, two mechanical reels are shrouded when a player
has played the game for 30 minutes. Alternatively, achieving a
predetermined performance threshold for a particular performance
characteristic may be required to cause the video shrouds to cover
one or more of the mechanical reels. For example, the video shrouds
appear after the player has made twelve consecutive maximum bets.
In another embodiment, the triggering event may be based upon the
number of credits on the gaming machine. That is, a random or
predetermined number of credits will trigger the appearance of the
video shrouds. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, one or
more of the disclosed triggering events may be required to cause
the presentation of one or more video shrouds over the mechanical
reels.
[0064] Once a triggering event has been established, the video
shrouds overlay one or more of the mechanical reels, thereby
obscuring the underlying reels. One or more video depictions of
game symbols may also be presented with the video shrouds. The
unshrouded, mechanical reels begin to spin (while the reels
underlying the video shrouds are not spun). The combination of the
video symbols and the symbols on the mechanical reels are evaluated
for any winning outcomes. In various embodiments, the bonus game
may include one or more spins in which one or more mechanical reels
are obscured by the video shrouds. The placement of the shrouds may
vary from spin-to-spin. Alternatively, the same reels may be
shrouded during the bonus game.
[0065] Optionally, in another embodiment, the gaming machine
includes one or more mechanical reels in a top box. The mechanical
reels are hidden behind an opaque video screen until the mechanical
reels are triggered for play. Alternately, in another embodiment, a
mechanical wheel is placed in the top box. The wheel is hidden
behind the video screen until the wheel is activated for play.
[0066] The gaming machine 10 may further include a player tracking
system (not shown). The player tracking system allows a casino to
monitor the gaming activities of various players. Additionally, the
player tracking system is able to store data relating to a player's
gaming habits. That is, a player can accrue player points that
depend upon the amount and frequency of their wagers. Casinos can
use these player points to compensate the loyal patronage of
players. For example, casinos may award or "comp" a player free
meals, room accommodations, tickets to shows, and invitations to
casino events and promotional affairs.
[0067] Typically, the player tracking system is operatively
connected to one or more input components on the gaming machine 10.
These input components include, but are not limited to, a card
reader for receiving a player tracking card, a keypad or
equivalent, an electronic button receptor, a touch screen and the
like. The player tracking system may also include a database of all
qualified players (i.e., those players who have enrolled in a
player rating or point accruing program). Generally, the database
for the player tracking system is separate from the gaming
devices.
[0068] Referring back to FIG. 1, the gaming machine 10 may include
a card reader 26 for reading player tracking cards. Additionally,
the card reader 26 may also read casino employee cards. Each time a
card is inserted into the reader, it monitors and tracks player and
employee activity.
[0069] In one embodiment, information obtained from the player
tracking card may be used to enhance a game player's experience.
For example, data such as the player's name may be retrieved from
the player tracking card. The player's name may then be displayed
on the video screen 4 to greet the player, thereby providing a more
personalized gaming experience. Additionally, in another
embodiment, the player who inserts a player tracking card may be
given additional multipliers, which are displayed on the video
screen 4. Further, the player may be given additional paylines or
better paytables.
[0070] The main cabinet 16 of the gaming machine 10 is a
self-standing unit that is generally rectangular in shape. In other
embodiments, the cabinet (not shown) may be a slant-top, bar-top,
or table-top style cabinet. However, any shaped cabinet may be used
with any embodiment of the gaming machine 10 and sized for a player
to be able to sit or stand while playing a game. Additionally, the
cabinet 16 may be manufactured with reinforced steel or other rigid
materials that are resistant to tampering and vandalism.
[0071] In one embodiment, the main cabinet 14 houses a game
management unit (not shown) that includes a CPU, circuitry, and
software for receiving signals from the player-activated buttons 18
and a handle 19, operating the games, and transmitting signals to
various components of the gaming machine 10 such as, but not
limited to, the video screen 4, mechanical reels 20, and speakers
24.
[0072] The gaming machine 10 may also include one or more speakers
24. Various types of audio may be output to the speakers 24. The
speakers 24 may be operatively connected to an amplifier (not
shown). Optionally, various audio files for use with one or more
audio features may be stored on the gaming machine 10.
[0073] In another embodiment, a seat (not shown) is operatively
connected to the gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the seat
includes a vibration effect. In particular, the operatively
connected seat will vibrate during the pre-determined triggering
events that occur during game play. Optionally, in another
embodiment, the seat may have a heating effect. In particular, the
seat may heat up, or get warmer during game play. Additionally, in
an optional embodiment, the game player may control the seat via
the user interface provided on the video screen 4.
[0074] In another embodiment, lighting effects are used to increase
player excitement. For example, during game play, lights (not
shown) on the gaming machine 10 may flash dramatically to develop a
sense of fanfare around a winning player. Additionally, other
lighting effects capable for use during game play include, but are
not limited to, pulsating light effects, backlighting, black
lighting and colored lighting. In one embodiment, lights are
strategically placed about the exterior of the gaming machine 10
(not shown). In this and other similar embodiments, the lights are
selectively turned on and off to create various effects. For
example, the lights may sequentially turn on and off to give the
illusion of spinning. The lights may be conventionally controlled
by circuitry tied to the gaming machine processor and software.
Additionally, the lights may flash different colors to create a
particular effect. For example, some lights may flash blue, while
other lights flash red. It may further be appreciated that the
lights may comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs) with
red-green-blue or similar coloring which came be activated
according to an algorithm or pattern to cause particular visual
affects that generate excitement or entertainment to a player.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 8, a casino gaming system 110 is
illustrated. The casino gaming system 110 comprises one or more
gaming machines 10 operatively connected via a network to a back
end system 112. In one embodiment, data may be downloaded to the
video screen 4 of one or more gaming machines dynamically.
Alternately, data may be scheduled for download to one or more
gaming machines. A configuration component may be used to configure
the implementation of the downloading.
[0076] The gaming machines 10 are connected via a network to a
network bridge 120, which is used for networking, routing and
polling gaming machines. The network bridge 120 connects to a back
end system 112. Optionally, the gaming machines 10 may connect to
the network via a network rack 122, which provides for a fewer
number of connections to the back end system 112. Both network
bridge 120 and network rack 122 may be classified as middleware,
and facilitate communications between the back end system 112 and
the gaming machines 10. The network bridges 120 and network rack
122 may comprise data repositories for storing network performance
data. Such performance data may be based on network traffic and
other network related information. Optionally, the network bridge
120 and the network rack 122 may be interchangeable components. For
example, in one embodiment, a casino gaming system may comprise
only network bridges and no network racks. Alternatively, in
another embodiment, a casino gaming system may comprise only
network racks and no network bridges. Additionally, in an
alternative embodiment, a casino gaming system may comprise any
combination of one or more network bridges and one or more network
racks.
[0077] The back end system 112 may be configured to comprise one or
more servers. The type of server employed is generally determined
by the platform and software requirements of the gaming system.
[0078] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the back end
system 112 is configured to include three servers: a slot floor
controller 114, a casino management server 116 and a casino
database 118. The slot floor controller 114 is a part of the player
tracking system for gathering accounting, security and player
specific information. The casino management server 116 and casino
database 118 work together to store and process information
specific to both employees and players. Player specific information
includes, but is not limited to, passwords, biometric
identification, player card identification, and biographic data.
Additionally, employee specification information may include
biographic data, biometric information, job level and rank,
passwords, authorization codes and security clearance levels.
[0079] As discussed above, data may be downloaded from the back end
system 112 to the video screen 4. Downloaded data includes, but is
not limited to, gaming content, game themes, animation and graphic
files for display on the video screen 4, sound files, etc.
[0080] In one embodiment, the casino gaming system 110 supports
tournament style play on or more of the gaming machines 10. The
video screen 4 informs players of payback percentage, tournament
status, etc. Additionally, the video screen 4 allows for the change
of meter labels, or more particularly, for the change from credits
to tournament points to points needed to reach next progressive
level, etc.
[0081] In another embodiment of the casino gaming system 110, the
paylines displayed on video screen 4 span across multiple adjacent
gaming machines 10. Additionally, in another embodiment, bonus
icons displayed on video screen 4 may also span across multiple
adjacent gaming machines 10.
[0082] Optionally, the video screen 4 may also a player to select
which gaming machines 10 to link in a tournament mode. In another
embodiment, the video screen 4 displays the tournament leader.
Additionally, the video screen 4 may further provide, via a user
interface, an option for extending time for the tournament
mode.
[0083] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that not
all gaming machines have all these components and may have other
components in addition to, or in lieu of, those components
mentioned here. Furthermore, while these components are viewed and
described separately, various components may be integrated into a
single unit in some embodiments.
[0084] The various embodiments described above are provided by way
of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the
claimed invention. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize
various modifications and changes that may be made to the claimed
invention without following the example embodiments and
applications illustrated and described herein, and without
departing from the true spirit and scope of the claimed invention,
which is set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *