U.S. patent application number 12/196766 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-19 for gaming system and a method of gaming.
This patent application is currently assigned to ARISTOCRAT TECHNOLOGIES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED. Invention is credited to George Roukis.
Application Number | 20090286587 12/196766 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40456601 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090286587 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Roukis; George |
November 19, 2009 |
GAMING SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF GAMING
Abstract
A method of gaming comprising: conducting a plurality of game
rounds by generating a game outcome for each game round;
determining whether the game round satisfies at least one criterion
for at least each game round prior to a final of the game rounds;
requiring the player to make a choice prior to the next game round
in relation to the game outcome if the game outcome of a respective
game round satisfies the at least one criterion; and carrying out
any subsequent game rounds based on a received player choice,
whereby any choices determine an overall outcome of the plurality
of game rounds.
Inventors: |
Roukis; George; (Miranda,
AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HANLEY, FLIGHT & ZIMMERMAN, LLC
150 S. WACKER DRIVE, SUITE 2100
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Assignee: |
ARISTOCRAT TECHNOLOGIES AUSTRALIA
PTY LIMITED
Lane Cove
AU
|
Family ID: |
40456601 |
Appl. No.: |
12/196766 |
Filed: |
August 22, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 23, 2007 |
AU |
2007904573 |
Claims
1. A method of gaming comprising: conducting a plurality of game
rounds by generating a game outcome for each game round;
determining whether the game round satisfies at least one criterion
for at least each game round prior to a final of the game rounds;
requiring the player to make a choice prior to the next game round
in relation to the game outcome if the game outcome of a respective
game round satisfies the at least one criterion; and carrying out
any subsequent game rounds based on a received player choice,
whereby any choices determine an overall outcome of the plurality
of game rounds.
2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein a criterion is that the
game outcome is a win.
3. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein a criterion is that the
game outcome includes a designated symbol.
4. A method as claimed in claim 2, comprising requiring the player
to choose whether to transfer a win from a win meter to a credit
meter.
5. A method as claimed in claim 3, including a choice comprising
whether to use the symbol.
6. A method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the symbol has an
associated function and requiring the player to make a choice
comprises requiring the player to choose whether to use the
function.
7. A method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the symbol is employed
in a subsequent game round.
8. A method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the symbol is employed
in the next game round.
9. A method as claimed in claim 5, comprising requiring the player
to choose a game round in which the symbol is to be employed.
10. A method as claimed in claim 4, wherein at least one game
outcome is a modifying outcome and the method comprises modifying
the win meter in response to the modifying outcome.
11. A method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the modifying outcome
results in an increase to the win meter.
12. A method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the modifying outcome
results in a decrease to the win meter.
13. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein generating a game
outcome comprises: randomly selecting symbols to be displayed at a
plurality of display positions; and determining whether to award a
win based on the selected symbols.
14. A method as claimed in claim 1 comprising requiring a player to
make a choice in relation to the final game round.
15. A game controller for a gaming system, the game controller
arranged to: conduct a plurality of game rounds by generating a
game outcome for each game round; determine whether the game round
satisfies at least one criterion for at least each game round prior
to a final of the game rounds; require the player to make a choice
prior to the next game round in relation to the game outcome if the
game outcome of a respective game round satisfies the at least one
criterion; and carry out any subsequent game rounds based on a
received player choice, whereby any choices determine an overall
outcome of the plurality of game rounds.
16. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, comprising a player
choice module arranged to determine whether a game round satisfies
the at least one criterion and offer any choices to the player.
17. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, comprising a choice
implementation module arranged to implement the player choice.
18. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, wherein a criterion
is that the game outcome is a win.
19. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, wherein a criterion
is that the game outcome includes a designated symbol.
20. A game controller as claimed in claim 18, arranged to require a
choice comprising whether to transfer a win from a win meter to a
credit meter.
21. A game controller as claimed in claim 19, arranged to require a
choice comprising whether to use the symbol.
22. A game controller as claimed in claim 19, wherein the symbol
has an associated function and the game controller is arranged to
require a player to make a choice as to whether to use the
function.
23. A game controller as claimed in claim 21, wherein the symbol is
employed in a subsequent game round.
24. A game controller as claimed in claim 23, wherein the symbol is
employed in the next game round.
25. A game controller as claimed in claim 21, arranged to require a
player choice specifying a game round in which the symbol is to be
employed.
26. A game controller as claimed in claim 20, wherein at least one
game outcome is a modifying outcome in response to which the game
controller modifies the win meter.
27. A game controller as claimed in claim 26, wherein the game
controller increases the win meter.
28. A game controller as claimed in claim 26, wherein game
controller decreases the win meter.
29. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, arranged to generate
a game outcome by: randomly selecting symbols to be displayed at a
plurality of display positions; and determining whether to award a
win based on the selected symbols.
30. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, arranged to require a
player to make a choice in relation to the final game round.
31. A game controller as claimed in claim 15, implemented, at least
in part, by a processor executing program code stored in a
memory.
32. A gaming system comprising: a player interface comprising a
display on which game outcomes may be displayed, and an instruction
input mechanism operable by the player to make player choices; and
the game controller arranged to: conduct a plurality of game rounds
by generating a game outcome for each game round; determine whether
the game round satisfies at least one criterion for at least each
game round prior to a final of the game rounds; require the player
to make a choice prior to the next game round in relation to the
game outcome if the game outcome of a respective game round
satisfies the at least one criterion; and carry out any subsequent
game rounds based on a received player choice, whereby any choices
determine an overall outcome of the plurality of game rounds.
33. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32, wherein the game
controller comprises a player choice module arranged to determine
whether a game round satisfies the at least one criterion and offer
any choices to the player.
34. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32, wherein the game
controller comprises a choice implementation module arranged to
implement the player choice.
35. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32, wherein a criterion is
that the game outcome is a win.
36. A gaming system as claimed in claims 32, wherein a criterion is
that the game outcome includes a designated symbol.
37. A gaming system as claimed in claim 35, wherein the game
controller is arranged to require a choice comprising whether to
transfer a win from a win meter to a credit meter.
38. A gaming system as claimed in claim 36, wherein the game
controller is arranged to require a choice comprising whether to
use the symbol.
39. A gaming system as claimed in claim 36, wherein the symbol has
an associated function and the game controller is arranged to
require a player to make a choice as to whether to use the
function.
40. A gaming system as claimed in claim 38, wherein the symbol is
employed in a subsequent game round.
41. A gaming system as claimed in claim 40, wherein the symbol is
employed in the next game round.
42. A gaming system as claimed in claim 38, arranged to require a
player choice specifying a game round in which the symbol is to be
employed.
43. A gaming system as claimed in claim 37, wherein at least one
game outcome is a modifying outcome in response to which the game
controller modifies the win meter.
44. A gaming system as claimed in claim 43, wherein the game
controller increases the win meter.
45. A gaming system as claimed in claim 43, wherein the game
controller decreases the win meter.
46. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32, wherein the game
controller is arranged to generate a game outcome by: randomly
selecting symbols to be displayed at a plurality of display
positions; and determining whether to award a win based on the
selected symbols.
47. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32, the game controller is
arranged to require a player to make a choice in relation to the
final game round.
48. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32, wherein the game
controller is implemented, at least in part, by a processor
executing program code stored in a memory.
49. A computer readable medium including computer program code
which when executed implements the method of claim 1.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority to
Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2007904573, filed on
Aug. 23, 2007, entitled "A Gaming System and a Method of Gaming",
which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a gaming system, a method
of gaming, a game controller and computer program code.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0003] It is known to provide a gaming system which comprises a
game controller arranged to randomly display several symbols from a
predetermined set of symbols and to determine a game outcome such
as a game win based on the displayed symbols. Such gaming systems
may commonly be implemented as a stepper machine provided with
reels with each reel carrying several symbols of the set, or a
video machine wherein selected symbols are displayed on virtual
reels on a video display.
[0004] While such gaming systems provide users with enjoyment, a
need exists for alternative gaming systems in order to maintain or
increase player enjoyment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In one aspect, the invention provides a method of gaming
including: [0006] conducting a plurality of game rounds by
generating a game outcome for each game round; [0007] determining
whether the game round satisfies at least one criterion for at
least each game round prior to a final of the game rounds; [0008]
requiring the player to make a choice prior to the next game round
in relation to the game outcome if the game outcome of a respective
game round satisfies the at least one criterion; and [0009]
carrying out any subsequent game rounds based on a received player
choice, whereby any choices determine an overall outcome of the
plurality of game rounds.
[0010] In an embodiment, a criterion is that the game outcome is a
win.
[0011] In an embodiment, a criterion is that the game outcome
includes a designated symbol.
[0012] In an embodiment, the method includes requiring the player
to choose whether to transfer a win from a win meter to a credit
meter.
[0013] In an embodiment, the method includes a choice including
whether to use the symbol.
[0014] In an embodiment, the symbol has an associated function and
requiring the player to make a choice includes requiring the player
to choose whether to use the function.
[0015] In an embodiment, the symbol is employed in a subsequent
game round.
[0016] In an embodiment, the symbol is employed in the next game
round.
[0017] In an embodiment, the method includes requiring the player
to choose a game round in which the symbol is to be employed.
[0018] In an embodiment, at least one game outcome may be a
modifying outcome which modifies the win meter.
[0019] In an embodiment, the modifying outcome increases the win
meter.
[0020] In an embodiment, the modifying outcome decreases the win
meter.
[0021] In an embodiment, generating a game outcome includes: [0022]
randomly selecting symbols to be displayed at a plurality of
display positions; and [0023] determining whether to award a win
based on the selected symbols.
[0024] In an embodiment, the method includes requiring a player to
make a choice in relation to the final game round.
[0025] In another aspect, the invention provides a game controller
for a gaming system, the game controller arranged to: [0026]
conduct a plurality of game rounds by generating a game outcome for
each game round; [0027] determine whether the game round satisfies
at least one criterion for at least each game round prior to a
final of the game rounds; [0028] require the player to make a
choice prior to the next game round in relation to the game outcome
if the game outcome of a respective game round satisfies the at
least one criterion; and [0029] carry out any subsequent game
rounds based on a received player choice, whereby any choices
determine an overall outcome of the plurality of game rounds.
[0030] In an embodiment the game controller includes a player
choice module arranged to determine whether a game round satisfies
the at least one criterion and offer any choices to the player.
[0031] In an embodiment, the game controller includes a choice
implementation module arranged to implement the player choice.
[0032] In an embodiment, a criterion is that the game outcome is a
win.
[0033] In an embodiment, a criterion is that the game outcome
includes a designated symbol.
[0034] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to require
a choice including whether to transfer a win from a win meter to a
credit meter.
[0035] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to require
a choice including whether to use the symbol.
[0036] In an embodiment, the symbol has an associated function and
the game controller is arranged to require a player to make a
choice as to whether to use the function.
[0037] In an embodiment, the symbol is employed in a subsequent
game round.
[0038] In an embodiment, the symbol is employed in the next game
round.
[0039] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to require
a player choice specifying a game round in which the symbol is to
be employed.
[0040] In an embodiment, at least one game outcome is a modifying
outcome in response to which the game controller modifies the win
meter.
[0041] In an embodiment, the modifying outcome increases the win
meter.
[0042] In an embodiment, the modifying outcome decreases the win
meter.
[0043] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to
generate a game outcome by: [0044] randomly selecting symbols to be
displayed at a plurality of display positions; and [0045]
determining whether to award a win based on the selected
symbols.
[0046] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to require
a player to make a choice in relation to the final game round.
[0047] In an embodiment, the game controller is implemented, at
least in part, by a processor executing program code stored in a
memory.
[0048] In another aspect, the invention provides a gaming system
including: [0049] a player interface including a display on which
game outcomes may be displayed, and an instruction input mechanism
operable by the player to make player choices; and [0050] the game
controller arranged to: [0051] conduct a plurality of game rounds
by generating a game outcome for each game round; [0052] determine
whether the game round satisfies at least one criterion for at
least each game round prior to a final of the game rounds; [0053]
require the player to make a choice prior to the next game round in
relation to the game outcome if the game outcome of a respective
game round satisfies the at least one criterion; and [0054] carry
out any subsequent game rounds based on a received player choice,
whereby any choices determine an overall outcome of the plurality
of game rounds.
[0055] In an embodiment, the game controller includes a player
choice module arranged to determine whether a game round satisfies
the at least one criterion and offer any choices to the player.
[0056] In an embodiment, the game controller includes a choice
implementation module arranged to implement the player choice.
[0057] In an embodiment, a criterion is that the game outcome is a
win.
[0058] In an embodiment, a criterion is that the game outcome
includes a designated symbol.
[0059] In an embodiment the game controller is arranged to require
a choice including whether to transfer a win from a win meter to a
credit meter.
[0060] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to require
a choice including whether to use the symbol.
[0061] In an embodiment, the symbol has an associated function and
the game controller is arranged to require a player to make a
choice as to whether to use the function.
[0062] In an embodiment, the symbol is employed in a subsequent
game round.
[0063] In an embodiment, the symbol is employed in the next game
round.
[0064] In an embodiment, the gaming system is arranged to require a
player choice specifying a game round in which the symbol is to be
employed.
[0065] In an embodiment, at least one game outcome may be a
modifying outcome in response to which the game controller modifies
the win meter.
[0066] In an embodiment, the modifying outcome increases the win
meter.
[0067] In an embodiment, the modifying outcome decreases the win
meter.
[0068] In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to
generate a game outcome by: [0069] randomly selecting symbols to be
displayed at a plurality of display positions; and [0070]
determining whether to award a win based on the selected symbols.
In an embodiment, the game controller is arranged to require a
player to make a choice in relation to the final game round.
[0071] In an embodiment, the game controller is implemented, at
least in part, by a processor executing program code stored in a
memory.
[0072] Certain embodiments of the present invention also provide
computer program code which when executed implements the above
method.
[0073] Certain embodiments of the present invention also provide a
computer readable medium including the computer program code.
[0074] Certain embodiments also provide a data signal including the
computer program code.
[0075] Certain embodiments also extend to transmitting the computer
program code.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0076] Certain embodiments of the invention will now be described
in relation to the following drawings in which:
[0077] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the core components of a gaming
system;
[0078] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a gaming machine;
[0079] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the functional components of a
gaming machine;
[0080] FIG. 4 is a block diagram representing the structure of a
memory;
[0081] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematic of a networked gaming
system;
[0082] FIG. 6 is a further block diagram of the gaming system;
and
[0083] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the embodiment.
[0084] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will
be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended
drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, certain
embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood,
however, that the present invention is not limited to the
arrangements and instrumentality shown in the attached
drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0085] The embodiment provides a gaming system which implements a
game, advantageously but not necessarily, as a feature game. In the
game, a player plays a plurality of game rounds and if the game
rounds meet criteria, such as they result in a win or include a
designated symbol, the player is required to make a choice as to
what to do with the win or symbol. The player's choices affect the
overall outcome of the feature game. The gaming system may be
provided in a number of different forms.
[0086] In a first form, a stand alone gaming machine is provided
wherein all or most components for implementing the game are
present in a player operable gaming machine.
[0087] In a second form, a distributed architecture is provided
wherein some of the components for implementing the game are
present in a player operable gaming machine and some of the
components for implementing the game are located remotely relative
to the gaming machine. For example, a "thick client" architecture
may be used wherein part of the game is executed on a player
operable gaming machine and part of the game is executed remotely,
such as by a gaming server; or a "thin client" architecture may be
used wherein most of the game is executed remotely such as by a
gaming server and a player operable gaming machine is used only to
display audible and/or visible gaming information to the player and
receive gaming inputs from the player.
[0088] However, it will be understood that other arrangements are
envisaged. For example, an architecture may be provided wherein a
gaming machine is networked to a gaming server and the respective
functions of the gaming machine and the gaming server are
selectively modifiable. For example, the gaming system may operate
in stand alone gaming machine mode, "thick client" mode or "thin
client" mode depending on the game being played, operating
conditions, and so on. Other variations will be apparent to persons
skilled in the art.
[0089] Irrespective of the form, the gaming system has several core
components. At the broadest level, the core components are a player
interface 50 and a game controller 60 as illustrated in FIG. 1. The
player interface is arranged to enable manual interaction between a
player and the gaming system and for this purpose includes the
input/output components for the player to enter instructions and
play the game.
[0090] Components of the player interface may vary from embodiment
to embodiment but will typically include a credit mechanism 52 to
enable a player to input credits and receive payouts, one or more
displays 54 and a game play mechanism 56 that enables a player to
input game play instructions.
[0091] The game controller 60 is in data communication with the
player interface and typically includes a processor 62 that
processes the game play instructions in accordance with game play
rules and outputs game play outcomes to the display. Typically, the
game play instructions are stored as program code in a memory 64
but can also be hardwired. Herein the term "processor" is used to
refer generically to any device that can process game play
instructions in accordance with game play rules and may include: a
microprocessor, microcontroller, programmable logic device or other
computational device, a general purpose computer (e.g. a PC) or a
server.
[0092] A gaming system in the form of a stand alone gaming machine
10 is illustrated in FIG. 2. The gaming machine 10 includes a
console 12 having a display 14 on which is displayed
representations of a game 16 that can be played by a player. A
mid-trim 20 of the gaming machine 10 houses a bank of buttons 22
for enabling a player to interact with the gaming machine, in
particular during game play. The mid-trim 20 also houses a credit
input mechanism 24 which in this example includes a coin input
chute 24A and a bill collector 24B. Other credit input mechanisms
may also be employed, for example, a card reader for reading a
smart card, debit card or credit card. A player marketing module
may be provided having a reading device may also be provided for
the purpose of reading a player tracking device, for example as
part of a loyalty program. The player tracking device may be in the
form of a card, flash drive or any other portable storage medium
capable of being read by the reading device.
[0093] A top box 26 may carry artwork 28, including for example pay
tables and details of bonus awards and other information or images
relating to the game. Further artwork and/or information may be
provided on a front panel 29 of the console 12. A coin tray 30 is
mounted beneath the front panel 29 for dispensing cash payouts from
the gaming machine 10.
[0094] The display 14 shown in FIG. 2 is in the form of a video
display unit, particularly a cathode ray tube screen device.
Alternatively, the display 14 may be a liquid crystal display,
plasma screen, any other suitable video display unit, or the
visible portion of an electromechanical device. The top box 26 may
also include a display, for example a video display unit, which may
be of the same type as the display 14, or of a different type.
[0095] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of operative components of a
typical gaming machine which may be the same as or different to the
gaming machine of FIG. 2.
[0096] The gaming machine 100 includes a game controller 101 having
a processor 102. Instructions and data to control operation of the
processor 102 are stored in a memory 103, which is in data
communication with the processor 102. Typically, the gaming machine
100 will include both volatile and non-volatile memory and more
than one of each type of memory, with such memories being
collectively represented by the memory 103.
[0097] The gaming machine has hardware meters 104 for purposes
including ensuring regulatory compliance and monitoring player
credit, an input/output (I/O) interface 105 for communicating with
peripheral devices of the gaming machine 100. The input/output
interface 105 and/or the peripheral devices may be intelligent
devices with their own memory for storing associated instructions
and data for use with the input/output interface or the peripheral
devices. A random number generator module 113 generates random
numbers for use by the processor 102. Persons skilled in the art
will appreciate that the reference to random numbers includes
pseudo-random numbers.
[0098] In the example shown in FIG. 3, a player interface 120
includes peripheral devices that communicate with the game
controller 101 including one or more displays 106, a touch screen
and/or buttons 107, a card and/or ticket reader 108, a printer 109,
a bill acceptor and/or coin input mechanism 110 and a coin output
mechanism 111. Additional hardware may be included as part of the
gaming machine 100, or hardware may be omitted depending upon the
specific implementation.
[0099] In addition, the gaming machine 100 may include a
communications interface, for example a network card 112. The
network card may, for example, send status information, accounting
information or other information to a central controller, server or
database and receive data or commands from the central controller,
server or database.
[0100] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the main components of an
exemplary memory 103. The memory 103 includes RAM 103A, EPROM 103B
and a mass storage device 103C. The RAM 103A typically temporarily
holds program files for execution by the processor 102 and related
data. The EPROM 103B may be a boot ROM device and/or may contain
some system or game related code. The mass storage device 103C is
typically used to store game programs, the integrity of which may
be verified and/or authenticated by the processor 102 using
protected code from the EPROM 103B or elsewhere.
[0101] It is also possible for the operative components of the
gaming machine 100 to be distributed, for example input/output
devices 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111 to be provided remotely from
the game controller 101.
[0102] FIG. 5 shows a gaming system 200 in accordance with an
alternative embodiment. The gaming system 200 includes a network
201, which for example may be an Ethernet network. Gaming machines
202, shown arranged in three banks 203 of two gaming machines 202
in FIG. 5, are connected to the network 201. The gaming machines
202 provide a player operable interface and may be the same as the
gaming machines 10,100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, or may have
simplified functionality depending on the requirements for
implementing game play. While banks 203 of two gaming machines are
illustrated in FIG. 5, banks of one, three or more gaming machines
are also envisaged.
[0103] One or more displays 204 may also be connected to the
network 201. The displays 204 may, for example, be associated with
one or more banks 203 of gaming machines. The displays 204 may be
used to display representations associated with game play on the
gaming machines 202, and/or used to display other representations,
for example promotional or informational material.
[0104] In a thick client embodiment, game server 205 implements
part of the game played by a player using a gaming machine 202 and
the gaming machine 202 implements part of the game. With this
embodiment, as both the game server and the gaming device implement
part of the game, they collectively provide a game controller. A
database management server 206 may manage storage of game programs
and associated data for downloading or access by the gaming devices
202 in a database 206A. Typically, if the gaming system enables
players to participate in a Jackpot game, a Jackpot server 207 will
be provided to monitor and carry out the Jackpot game. A loyalty
program server may also be provided.
[0105] In a thin client embodiment, game server 205 implements most
or all of the game played by a player using a gaming machine 202
and the gaming machine 202 essentially provides only the player
interface. With this embodiment, the game server 205 provides the
game controller. The gaming machine will receive player
instructions, pass these to the game server which will process them
and return game play outcomes to the gaming machine for display. In
a thin client embodiment, the gaming machines could be computer
terminals, e.g. PCs running software that provides a player
interface operable using standard computer input and output
components.
[0106] Servers are also typically provided to assist in the
administration of the gaming network 200, including for example a
gaming floor management server 208, and a licensing server 209 to
monitor the use of licenses relating to particular games. An
administrator terminal 210 is provided to allow an administrator to
run the network 201 and the devices connected to the network.
[0107] The gaming network 200 may communicate with other gaming
systems, other local networks, for example a corporate network,
and/or a wide area network such as the Internet, for example
through a firewall 211.
[0108] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that in
accordance with known techniques, functionality at the server side
of the network may be distributed over a plurality of different
computers. For example, elements may be run as a single "engine" on
one server or a separate server may be provided. For example, the
game server 205 could run a random generator engine. Alternatively,
a separate random number generator server could be provided.
Further, persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a
plurality of games servers could be provided to run different games
or a single game server may run a plurality of different games
depending on the involved terminals.
[0109] Gaming systems for implementing games that involve a display
of spinning reels as part of the display of the outcome of a game
have either a video display or a mechanical display, these later
machines most usually being "stepper" machines which have a
separate motor for each reel.
[0110] In some implementations the game controllers of such gaming
machines select symbols by employing a stop determining function
that randomly determines the stop position for each reel. For
example, if there are five reels, each having twenty symbols, the
stop determining function might determine that the stop positions
are positions: 3, 13, 7, 9 and 17. The spinning of the reels is
then controlled so that each symbol comes to a stop in the same
row, typically a predetermined row in a "window" visible to the
player on the display that which corresponds to a player playing a
single win line. When a reel stops, the symbols will be in one of a
plurality of possible symbol positions for that reel relative to
the stop position which constitutes a game outcome.
[0111] Embodiments of the present invention relate to gaming
systems that allow a player to select how many win lines of a
plurality of win lines they will play in each game--i.e. a minimum
of one win line up to the maximum number of win lines allowed by
the game. Each win line is formed by a set of symbol positions
consisting of one symbol position from each reel. That is, a
predetermined symbol position of each reel is assigned to a win
line. The symbol positions that constitute each of the win lines
are usually advertised to the player by markings on the display or
diagrams showing the symbol positions that correspond to each win
line.
[0112] Persons skilled in the art, will appreciate that in other
embodiments, the player may obtain a win entitlement by selecting a
number of reels to play. Such games are marketed under the trade
name "Reel Power" by Aristocrat Leisure Industries Pty Ltd. The
selection of the reel means that each symbol of the reel can be
substituted for a symbol at one or more designated display
positions. In other words, all symbol positions of a selected reel
can be used to form symbol combinations with designated, displayed
symbol positions of non-selected reels.
[0113] In other embodiments a player win entitlement may be
affected by purchasing access to particular pay tables--e.g. a
first bet amount entitles the player to wins including cherries and
a second amount entitles them to wins including plums.
[0114] The game controller 60 of the embodiment is shown in more
detail in FIG. 6. As will be apparent from FIG. 6, the processor 62
implements a plurality of modules including a random number
generator 621, a symbol selector 622, an outcome determiner 623, an
entitlement module 625, a feature game module 624 and a display
controller 626.
[0115] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that other
implementations are possible. For example, the random number
generator module 621 could be implemented as a separate piece of
dedicated hardware in data communication with the game controller
60. Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that the
modules in the embodiment are implemented by portions of software
routine of the game software.
[0116] In the embodiment, the game is implemented as a feature
game. The entitlement module 625 determines when the player becomes
entitled to the feature game and when it should commence.
[0117] The player's eligibility for the feature game can be
determined in accordance with any one of a number of known rules
including but not limited to: [0118] being available to all players
for all bets; [0119] being available only for certain bet types; or
[0120] different levels of features being available for different
bets.
[0121] Further, the feature game can commence in accordance with
any one of a number of known rules including but not limited to:
[0122] when a special symbol, or a combination of symbols appears
in the window; [0123] when a time elapses; [0124] when a system
event occurs; [0125] when an underlying random event occurs, for
example, in the course of a game; [0126] when a turnover has
elapsed.
[0127] Once the feature game begins, a plurality of game rounds are
awarded and the game rounds of the feature game are controlled by
the feature game module 624. The feature game module includes a
game round module 624a which tracks whether all of the plurality of
game rounds have been completed, a player choice module 624b for
determining whether the player should be offered a choice based on
a game outcome and a choice implementation module 624c for
implementing the choice.
[0128] In the first game round of the feature game, the feature
game module controls the symbol selector 622 to select a plurality
of symbols from symbol data 641 employing the random number
generator 621. For example, where the symbol data 641 specifies the
configuration of a plurality of reels, the symbol selector 622 may
select the symbols by selecting a stopping position for each reel.
The selected symbols are displayed on the display 54 under the
display controller 626. An outcome determiner 623 determines
whether an award should be made to the player based on the selected
symbols, such as a win. It calculates the win amount, if there is
one, based on the game/prize data 642.
[0129] The player choice module 624b is configured to determine
whether a condition is satisfied for a choice to be offered to the
player. In an embodiment, the conditions include that the outcome
determiner has determined that there is a win amount. In other
embodiments, a condition may be that the symbol selector has
selected one or more designated symbols, for example, having an
associated function, from the symbol data 641. When the player is
offered a choice, they input their response using input mechanism
56. Typically, the player will have two selection choices and hence
will be given a choice of two buttons 56a, 56b to press to make
their choice.
[0130] The choice implementation module 624c then implements the
player's choice in subsequent games. That is, the player is
required to make their choice before the next game round is
conducted. Play of the feature game continues until the game round
module determines that a last game round is being played. In the
last game round, the player would typically not need to make a
choice. However, in some embodiments, it is envisaged a player may
be able to make a choice, for example, as to whether to apply any
outstanding function symbols.
[0131] As indicated above, the memory 64 contains the data required
by various modules, including choice rule data 645, condition data
646, entitlement data 643 employed by the entitlement module and
feature game rules 647 employed by the feature game module 624.
Such feature game rules may include the number of game rounds that
are available. Memory 64 also includes meter data 644 which stores
a current state of the credit and win meters.
[0132] Accordingly, in the above embodiment, during the feature
game, the player is given a choice as to what to do with each
sub-feature win and/or symbols that appear during the feature
games. The choice can be made by pressing one of two selection
choices. The choices may be of various actions. For example, "take
win" which results in the win being transferred to the credit
meter, "ignore win", use the designated symbol, or "would you like
to use your triple bonus function for your next game" etc.
[0133] In an alternative embodiment, the player is given a fixed
amount of choices and a condition of offering a choice to the
player is that the player has not exhausted all of their
choices.
[0134] The process 700 is summarised in FIG. 7. The feature game is
awarded 710 and a game round counter is set 720 to an initial
value. At step 730 a game round is conducted and is determined
whether this was the last round 740. If it is the last round, a
prize is determined and the feature is ended 790. Otherwise, it is
determined whether the player needs to make a choice 750. If the
player does need to make a choice, the choice is received 770 and
implemented 780. The counter is then decreased 760. The process
increase continues until a last round has been played.
EXAMPLE
[0135] A player is entitled to the "choice" feature
1. Machine displays a "credit" meter to accumulate credits
available to play and a "win" meter to accumulate credits won
during the course of a feature. 2. A "special" feature sequence is
triggered. Triggering of the feature can be by any of the methods
known in the art. 3. Following commencement of the feature
sequence, a series of free games is played. 4. If a prize is won
during the feature, the prize amount is added to the "win" meter.
5. There are two buttons that are activated at the commencement of
the feature. 6. One button is labelled "BANK" and the second one is
labelled "NOT BANK". 7. At the conclusion of each game round, the
player is prompted with a decision. To "BANK" or "NOT BANK" the
current amount shown on "win" meter. 8. If player presses the
"BANK" button his "win" is transferred to the credit meter. 9. If
the "NOT BANK" button is pressed, then the "win" is remained in the
win meter. 10. The player accumulates "wins" by pressing "NOT
BANK". Thus, the "win" meter grows in amount. 11. When player
presses "BANK", the accumulated win is transferred to the credit
meter. 12. If however a special symbol is spun up while there is an
amount on the win meter it will trigger an event whereby the
credits are taken away from the win meter, for example, it is reset
to zero--thus, a first special symbol can reduce the win. 13. If a
second special symbol is spun up while there is an amount on the
win meter, it will trigger an event whereby the credits on the win
meter are increased--e.g. doubled. 14. Because the special symbols
can cause the win meter to increase or decrease, the player can
adjust their risk during free games--lower the risk by always
banking or increase the risk and possible return by always
selecting "not bank". 15. At the end of the feature game, the
amount shown on the win meter is transferred to the credit meter.
16. In markets which permit "gambling" of the "win" the player can
select to "gamble" prior to the amount on the win meter being
transferred to the credit meter.
[0136] Other variations will be apparent to a person skilled in the
art and should be understood as falling within the scope of the
invention described herein. For example, the symbol section game
could be a card game or a ball draw game such as keno, bingo or
arishinko.
[0137] Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that the
method of the embodiment could be embodied in program code. The
program code could be supplied in a number of ways, for example on
a computer readable medium, such as a disc or a memory (for
example, that could replace part of memory 103) or as a data signal
(for example, by downloading it from a server).
[0138] It will be understood to persons skilled in the art of the
invention that many modifications may be made without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention, in particular it will
be apparent that certain features of embodiments of the invention
can be employed to form further embodiments.
[0139] It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to
herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the
prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art
in any country.
[0140] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description
of the invention, except where the context indicates otherwise due
to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise"
or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an
inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated
features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further
features in various embodiments of the invention.
[0141] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the
invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing
from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The
present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all
respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
[0142] Several embodiments are described above with reference to
the drawings. These drawings illustrate certain details of specific
embodiments that implement the systems and methods and programs of
the present invention. However, describing the invention with
drawings should not be construed as imposing on the invention any
limitations associated with features shown in the drawings. The
present invention contemplates methods, systems and program
products on any electronic device and/or machine-readable media
suitable for accomplishing its operations. As noted above, certain
embodiments of the present invention may be implemented using an
existing computer processor and/or by a special purpose computer
processor incorporated for this or another purpose or by a
hardwired system, for example.
[0143] As noted above, embodiments within the scope of the present
invention include program products comprising machine-readable
media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or
data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be
any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or
special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way
of example, such machine-readable media may comprise RAM, ROM,
PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage,
magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any
other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program
code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data
structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or
special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. When
information is transferred or provided over a network or another
communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a
combination of hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine
properly views the connection as a machine-readable medium. Thus,
any such a connection is properly termed a machine-readable medium.
Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of
machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions comprise,
for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose
computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing
machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.
[0144] Certain embodiments of the invention are described in the
general context of method steps which may be implemented in one
embodiment by a program product including machine-executable
instructions, such as program code, for example in the form of
program modules executed by machines in networked environments.
Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects,
components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or
implement particular abstract data types. Machine-executable
instructions, associated data structures, and program modules
represent examples of program code for executing steps of the
methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of such
executable instructions or associated data structures represents
examples of corresponding acts for implementing the functions
described in such steps.
* * * * *