U.S. patent application number 12/583597 was filed with the patent office on 2010-03-04 for symbol alignment scheme for multiline gaming machines.
Invention is credited to Kathleen Nylund Jackson.
Application Number | 20100056254 12/583597 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41726267 |
Filed Date | 2010-03-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100056254 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jackson; Kathleen Nylund |
March 4, 2010 |
Symbol alignment scheme for multiline gaming machines
Abstract
A method and apparatus for a gaming machine is disclosed. A slot
machine processor and a video monitor screen are provided on which
symbols may be provided in a grid for use in a video slot game. The
player makes a wager to play the underlying game, with a
predetermined initial set of symbols being available for the play
of the game. Preferably the symbols are displayed in rows and
columns and a first array of symbols from the initial symbol set
are displayed in an initial position in the grid. Additional
symbols from the remaining initial symbol set are then displayed in
the grid, the symbols being displayed according to a specific
method and predetermined criterium. Symbols combinations are then
analyzed by the processor, and any winning combinations are paid
according to a predetermined paytable.
Inventors: |
Jackson; Kathleen Nylund;
(Scitutate, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Kathleen Nylund Jackson;Precedent Gaming, Inc.
51 Williamsburg Lane
Scituate
MA
02066
US
|
Family ID: |
41726267 |
Appl. No.: |
12/583597 |
Filed: |
August 21, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61190434 |
Aug 28, 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 |
Claims
1. A method of playing a video wagering game comprising: a player
placing a wager on the video wagering game; providing the player
with multiple spaces in which symbols will be displayed; providing
a first number of symbols into a first set of adjacent spaces;
providing at least a first symbol of a second set of symbols into a
second set of adjacent spaces, the at least first symbol of the
second set of symbols first positioned adjacent a first symbol of
the first number of symbols; wherein a) if the at least first
symbol of the second set of symbols has a predetermined
relationship with the adjacent first symbol of the first number of
symbols, no more symbols are provided into the second set of
symbols and a first symbol of a third set of symbols is provided,
and b) if there is no predetermined relationship, providing at
least a second symbol of a second set of symbols into the second
set of adjacent spaces, the at least second symbol of the second
set of symbols being positioned adjacent a first symbol of the
first number of symbols, and the at least first symbol of the
second set of symbols being positioned adjacent a second symbol of
the first number of symbols; and if step b) is performed such that:
i) if either the at least first symbol of the second set of symbols
has a predetermined relationship with the adjacent second symbol of
the first number of symbols or an at least second symbol of the
second number of symbols has a predetermined relationship with the
first symbol of the first number of symbols, no more symbols are
provided into the first set of symbols and the second set of
symbols and at least a first symbol of a third set of symbols is
provided; and ii) if neither the at least first symbol of the
second set of symbols has a predetermined relationship with the
adjacent second symbol of the first number of symbols nor an at
least second symbol of the second number of symbols has a
predetermined relationship with the first symbol of the first
number of symbols, providing at least a third symbol of the second
set of symbols into the second set of adjacent spaces, the at least
third symbol of the second set of symbols being positioned adjacent
the first symbol of the first number of symbols, the at least
second symbol of the second set of symbols positioned adjacent the
second symbol of the first number of symbols and the at least first
symbol of the second set of symbols being positioned adjacent a
third symbol of the first number of symbols; wherein c) if the at
least first symbol of the second set of symbols has a predetermined
relationship with the adjacent third symbol of the first number of
symbols, the at least second symbol of the second set of symbols
has a predetermined relationship with the second symbol of the
first set of symbols, or the at least third symbol of the second
set of symbols has a predetermined relationship with the first
symbol of the first set of symbols, no more symbols are provided
into the second set of symbols and a first symbol of a third set of
symbols is provided, completing at least a first payline including
the at least first symbol of the first number of symbols; and
providing awards for all paylines that have at least one
predetermined combination of winning symbols in the payline.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein at least three adjacent paylines
are completed with at least three symbols provided in at least one
payline.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein at least three adjacent linear
paylines are completed with at least three symbols provided in at
least one linear payline.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein at least three adjacent linear
paylines are completed with at least four symbols provided in at
least one linear payline.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein at least three adjacent linear
paylines are completed with five symbols provided in at least one
linear payline.
6. The method of claim 3 wherein a maximum, predetermined number of
symbols is available in each set of symbols after the first set,
whether or not a predetermined relationship is achieved between
adjacent symbols in a payline.
7. The method of claim 4 wherein a maximum, predetermined number of
symbols is available in each set of symbols after the first set,
whether or not a predetermined relationship is achieved between
adjacent symbols in a payline.
8. The method of claim 5 wherein a maximum, predetermined number of
symbols is available in each set of symbols after the first set,
whether or not a predetermined relationship is achieved between
adjacent symbols in a payline.
9. The method of claim 6 wherein all sets of numbers of symbols are
displayed above individual columns after a first column before all
numbers of symbols are provided to those individual columns.
10. The method of claim 7 wherein all sets of numbers of symbols
are displayed above individual columns after a first column before
all numbers of symbols are provided to those individual
columns.
11. The method of claim 8 wherein all sets of numbers of symbols
are displayed above individual columns after a first column before
all numbers of symbols are provided to those individual
columns.
12. The method of claim 9 wherein a 3 row.times.5 column matrix of
spaces is provided for symbols.
13. The method of claim 10 wherein a 3 row.times.5 column matrix of
spaces is provided for symbols.
14. The method of claim 11 wherein a 3 row.times.5 column matrix of
spaces is provided for symbols.
15. The method of claim 12 wherein only three symbols are provided
into a first column and at least 3-5 symbols are available for each
remaining four columns.
16. The method of claim 13 wherein only three symbols are provided
into a first column and at least 3-5 symbols are available for each
remaining four columns.
17. The method of claim 14 wherein only three symbols are provided
into a first column and at least 3-5 symbols are available for each
remaining four columns.
18. A gaming apparatus comprising a housing, a video display
monitor and a processor containing software enabling execution of
the method of claim 1 on the video display monitor.
19. A gaming apparatus comprising a housing, a video display
monitor and a processor containing software enabling execution of
the method of claim 10 on the video display monitor.
20. A gaming apparatus comprising a housing, a video display
monitor and a processor containing software enabling execution of
the method of claim 17 on the video display monitor.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a video slot game suitable
for use in casinos and other gaming enterprises. The invention
further relates to video gaming play that features a system for
providing symbols in a multiline game wherein a predetermined
criterion is used to place the symbols.
[0003] 2. Background of the Art
[0004] Gaming machines, whether providing video poker or slot
games, have grown exponentially in numbers in the last twenty
years, as have the revenues generated by such devices. It is
estimated that more than 75% of any casino's revenue is now
provided by gaming machines as opposed to table games.
[0005] In the gaming industry, there is a continuous need for
innovative game features that will attract new players as well as
keep regular players amused and therefore willing to continue
playing the game. Since in virtually every casino game there is a
house advantage, the longer a player remains playing at a machine,
the larger the casino's profit. And also since it is well
recognized in the industry that players tend to easily tire of
particular games, manufacturers must constantly develop new game
features to stimulate player interest.
[0006] The majority of today's slot machines are video slots,
particularly 5-reel.times.3-row multiple payline video slots.
Especially in the last decade, these multiline machine games have
exploded in popularity, although there is still a wariness for some
casino patrons to play these games. The main drawback of multiline
games is that the payline configurations are perceived to be
difficult to comprehend in comparison to the long-traditional
3-reel slots that provide a single, easy-to-understand payline.
[0007] Due to the multiple number of symbols (most usually 15
symbols in a 5.times.3 grid) and the potential number of paylines
(up to 243 paylines if all configurations are considered from left
to right), it is a common complaint of players that although the
play is entertaining, there remains the question of why, in fact,
they won or lost the game. Some paylines do not actually even
physically connect symbols within winning symbol combinations,
which further frustrates the player.
[0008] Various attempts in prior art have been made to provide
multiline games with novel and entertaining features that will
attract new players and keep them at the machine.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 7,294,055 (Baerlocher, et al.) describes a
gaming device having a game with a plurality of selections, where
each selection has at least two characteristics. The gaming device
is controlled by at least one processor to display a plurality of
the selections; display an indication of one of the selections
functioning as a base; determine at least one optimal selection
from the displayed selections for providing a highest obtainable
award for the game; display an indication of the optimal selection;
and enable a player to input a pick of one of the plurality of
displayed selections, other than the selection functioning as the
base, where the picked selection has at least one characteristic
that matches one of the characteristics of the selection
functioning as the base.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 7,137,886 (Locke, et al.) discloses a gaming
machine that provides a first group of first elements and a second
group of second elements. A first element from the first group is
selected and then compared to one or more second elements in the
second group. The machine awards a payout based on any matches
between the selected first element and the one or more second
elements in the second group. The second elements may be ranked,
and the payout may be based on the rank of any second elements that
match the selected first element.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 7,128,646 (Baerlocher, et al.) teaches a
gaming device including a game having at least one round and at
least one selection in each of the rounds where the number of
selections is made by a player. After the player makes a wager in
the game, the gaming device displays at least one selection to the
player. The gaming device enables the player to pick the selections
to match at least one of the characteristics on the selections with
one of the characteristics of a base. The player continues to match
at least one of the characteristics of the selections with the
characteristics of the base until the player cannot match any of
the characteristics of the selections with the characteristics of
the base or there are no rounds remaining in the game. The gaming
device provides an award or awards to the player based on the
number of successfully matched selections in each round of the
game.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 7,112,136 (Anderson, et al.) discloses a slot
machine that conducts a wagering game including a plurality of
symbol-bearing reels. The reels are rotated and stopped to randomly
place symbols on the reels in visual association with a display
area. In response to the displayed symbols including a plurality of
symbols selectable by the player, the player is prompted to select
one of the selectable symbols. The machine provides an award based
on the selected symbol and any other of the displayed symbols
associated with the selected symbol.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 7,077,745 (Gomez, et al.) describes a method
of conducting a that may, for example, be a video reel slot game
that includes a plurality of symbols displayed in an array. The
plurality of symbols are evaluated to determine a change to one of
the symbols that will yield one of a plurality of predefined
winning combinations of symbols. The one of the symbols is changed
to another of the symbols to form the winning combination, and an
award is awarded for the winning combination.
[0014] United States Patent Application No. 20070265059 (Ando, et
al.) teaches a gaming machine in which, when a part of a symbol
combination for a winning combination is aligned on a winning line,
a player can have increased expectation on an alignment of the
winning combination even if the player is well-experienced in games
of such a gaming machine. The game machine includes three reels to
interchangeably display a plurality of types of symbols, and makes
a selection for either an acceptance to select an almost-winning
prize which corresponds to a combination of symbols having a
different part of symbol from a winning combination (a symbol
combination of three White 7 symbols) for a predetermined prize
group (e.g., White 7 Prize), or a refusal not to select the
almost-winning prize. When an acceptance is selected by the
selection, in the combination of symbols corresponding to
almost-winning prize, a part of symbols which is identical to that
of the winning combination (a part for a left reel and a part for a
right reel) is controlled to be stopped on a winning line to be
displayed. Then, after another selection is made to determine
whether the winning combination is aligned on the winning line or
not, a middle reel is controlled to stop based on the result of the
latter selection.
[0015] United States Patent Application No. 20070060294 (Cuddy, et
al.) discloses a gaming device including a re-initiation mode
wherein the probability of extending the bonus game is increased by
fixing the reel or reels displaying a wild symbol on the reel. In
the re-initiation mode embodiment, the gaming device re-activates
some or all of the reels except the reel displaying the wild symbol
for a predetermined number of free spins or until the reactivated
reels display or indicate a wild symbol on the reels. The gaming
device provides any outcomes associated with indicated symbols or
combination of symbols. In one embodiment, if a predetermined
number of wild symbols are displayed on designated reels, the
gaming device re-initiates the bonus game.
[0016] United States Patent Application No. 20070060289 (Hood)
discloses a gaming device wherein the invention has an orthogonal
array comprised of gaming symbol positions organized in rows and
columns, each of the gaming symbol positions can display a gaming
symbol chosen from a gaming symbol table assigned to that gaming
symbol position. The array could further have multiple paylines
comprised of gaming symbol positions, wherein the gaming symbol
positions of a respective payline could be assigned to gaming
symbol tables that are considered to be different frequency gaming
symbol tables to one another. In this manner, no one row has gaming
symbol tables assigned to its respective gaming symbol positions
that could be considered to be identical frequency tables to one
another. In this manner, no one row has gaming symbol tables
assigned to its respective gaming symbol positions that could be
considered to be identical frequency tables to one another.
[0017] United States Patent Application No. 20080051174 (Fiden;
Daniel P.) describes a gaming terminal and a method for playing a
wagering game utilizing a two-way cascading symbol feature. The
wagering terminal has first and second displays, with a first game
outcome displayed as a plurality of symbols on the first display.
The symbols are analyzed to determine if they satisfy a
predetermined condition. All symbols satisfying the condition are
added to the second display. The symbols in the second display then
are analyzed for a winning combination. If no winning combination
exists, the game is over. A winning combination awards the player
credits, before removing the winning symbols from the second
display. All remaining symbols shift down one position. The symbols
in the upper display are analyzed until no more winning
combinations exists.
[0018] United States Patent Application No. 20080032791 (Hosokawa;
Norio) provides a gaming machine which can increase an
entertainment aspect by changing a disposition of a plurality of
symbols and payout lines displayed on a display portion provided in
the gaming machine, thus providing a visual change. In a gaming
machine, in which an execution of a game is possible by means of a
game medium being inserted by a player, a disposition aspect 1(A),
a disposition aspect 2(B) and a disposition aspect 3(C), as
disposition aspects of a plurality of display areas which display
symbols, and payout lines corresponding to the disposition aspects,
are stored in a memory such as a memory. A processor selects one
from among the plurality of disposition aspects stored in the
memory, fixes a position of the display areas on a screen of a
display, in accordance with the selected disposition aspect, and
displays a symbol inside each display area. Then, the processor, in
accordance with an instruction from the player, redisplays symbols
to be displayed inside the disposed display areas.
[0019] The invention, therefore, has an object of providing a
gaming machine which can increase an entertainment aspect by, as
well as variously changing a disposition, that is, a display
position, of a plurality of symbols displayed on a display portion
provided in the gaming machine, changing payout lines in accordance
with the change in the disposition of the symbols, thus providing a
visual change.
[0020] United States Patent Application No. 20080032786 (Hosokawa;
Norio) provides a gaming machine which can increase an
entertainment aspect by changing a disposition of a plurality of
symbols and payout lines displayed on a display portion provided in
the gaming machine, thus providing a visual change. The invention,
has an object of providing a gaming machine which, scroll
displaying each of a plurality of symbols displayed in a display
portion in a predetermined display position, by interchanging
symbol columns, provides a visual change and further increases an
entertainment aspect.
[0021] United States Patent Application No. 20070075490 (Gak;
Alexander) teaches a method of playing a game that has plurality of
possible outcomes and establishes a fractional payout multiplier
for each possible outcome. A wager is established by a player on
one of the outcomes. The player wager includes a stake and a
selected wager outcome. The game establishes an actual outcome. The
actual outcome is compared to the selected wager outcome. If the
actual outcome matches the selected outcome, a payout is determined
by a function of the product of the stake and the fractional payout
multiplier associated with the selected outcome.
[0022] United States Patent Application No. 20070010317 (Gallagher;
Leo A.) discloses an improved slot machine provides a plurality of
animated scenes, the outcomes of which determine whether the player
has won. The slot machine provides some of the traditional elements
of a slot machine but with improved entertainment replacing the
spinning reels. Scenes may depict objects that are moving toward a
line, which is reminiscent of the line in the traditional slot
machine, but in this case represents something physical with which
the objects interact. For example, the objects could be birds that
are falling/flying down onto a wire. In another example, the
objects are freely falling onto the ground or floor. The scenes
depict several possible outcomes of the interaction between the
objects. Based upon the resulting outcomes (e.g. matching outcomes,
like a traditional slot machine) the player wins or loses.
[0023] United States Patent Application No. 20060068881 (Casey;
Michael P.) discloses a slot machine that conducts a wagering game
in which a plurality of arrays of symbols are successively
displayed. Each array may, for example, result from a free spin of
a plurality of symbol-bearing reels during a bonus feature. In each
free spin, the reels are rotated and stopped to place the symbols
on the reels in visual association with a display area. In response
to a random event, at least one symbol may change its function and
maintain that function for a plurality of the successive free
spins. For example, the symbol may become a wild symbol or a
scatter pay symbol. Payouts for the free spins are awarded
according to a pay table.
[0024] United States Patent Application No. 20050208994 (Berman)
discloses a method and apparatus for use in gaming activities such
as slot machines. Multiple display segments are presented, where
one or more of the display segments are presented having multiple
display subsegments. Display subsegments present subsegment symbols
independently of the other display subsegments in its respective
display segment. Paylines are created from a plurality of the
display segments, where the subsegment symbols of the display
subsegments are independently used in formulating payout results
for paylines in which the display segment is affiliated. Paylines
may be dynamically created at any location as a result of
corresponding symbols occurring in a predetermined number of
adjacent display segments and/or subsegments.
[0025] United States Patent Application No. 20050054421
(Hughs-Baird, Andrea C.; et al.) describes a gaming device
including a plurality of award values and a plurality of modifier
values. A characteristic is associated with at least one award
value position and at least one modifier value position. The gaming
device provides an award to a player associated with at least one
award value position and at least one modifier value position,
wherein the award includes an additional award when the award value
position and the modifier value position contain the same or
related characteristics.
[0026] Despite the above referenced prior art, there remains a need
for new game features that will stimulate the gaming public. Since
it is known that gamblers not only play for the win, but for the
anticipation of winning as well, the present invention provides
methods that offer exciting yet easy-to-understand symbol placement
and symbol combinations. All reference material cited herein is
incorporated herein in their entirety as background technology in
the practice of the present invention, including description of
hardware, software and platforms.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0027] A slot machine processor and a video monitor screen are
provided on which symbols may be provided in a predetermined
pattern, circle, matrix, grid or orthagonal format for use in a
video slot game such that orders or lines of symbols can be
presented. A predetermined initial set of symbols is available for
the play of the game, and the game preferably utilizes in a 3-row
by 5-column configuration. The player makes a wager to play the
game. A first array of symbols from the initial symbol set is
displayed in an initial position in the display (preferably a
grid). Preferably the left-most column or reel (or, alternately,
the top row) is first randomly or pseudo-randomly populated with a
first selection of symbols from the initial total available set.
Additional symbols from the remaining initial symbol set (the
initial total set less the first selection of symbols) are then
first displayed in a screen area outside of the grid area for
eventual placement into the grid. At least three, but preferably at
least five symbols, are preferably displayed as a set above each
remaining column (or alternately, as a set beside each row). Each
set of symbols, in sequential order from the second column to the
fifth column, is then distributed one-at-a-time in a continuous or
cascading flow into the column below until a specific condition is
met. The specific condition is predetermined, and preferably
requires that a specific characteristic of one symbol relates to
(i.e., matches or otherwise related in a predetermined manner) a
specific characteristic of one of the other symbols in a same row.
Preferably the related symbols appear in adjacent columns. As soon
as a characteristic-related symbol is displayed in an adjacent
column in the same row, the distribution of the symbol set into
that specific column is terminated. Symbols in that symbol set that
are not displayed in the grid are discarded. Using this symbol
distribution method, each of the columns 2 through 5 will be
completed with a) no symbols, b) one symbol, c) two symbols or d)
three symbols. After the symbol distribution in all columns has
been completed, the final symbol display is then analyzed by the
processor, and any winning symbol combinations on a wagered payline
are paid according to a predetermined paytable. Preferably all
paylines are horizontal or linear, although any continuous or
discontinuous pattern of symbols may be used as the payline.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0028] FIG. 1 shows a monitor screen of a slot machine with the
results of a first spin.
[0029] FIG. 2 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0030] FIG. 3 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0031] FIG. 4 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0032] FIG. 5 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0033] FIG. 6 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0034] FIG. 7 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0035] FIG. 8 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0036] FIG. 9 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0037] FIG. 10 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0038] FIG. 11 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0039] FIG. 12 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0040] FIG. 13 shows the same game at a later stage.
[0041] FIG. 14 shows the same game at a final stage.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0042] A slot machine processor and a video monitor screen are
provided (usually in a housing with player input capability) on
which symbols may be provided for use in a video slot game. The
symbols may be positioned in any desired geometric or irregular
pattern that defines spaces wherein symbols may be distributed and
viewed in relationship with other symbols, such as circles,
concentric circles, grids, matrices, and the like preferably as a
matrix of rows and columns comprised of symbol-bearing areas, or
may be positioned in other symmetric, asymmetric or random
patterns. An initial set of symbols is provided for play of the
game, the symbols having at least one specific characteristic
(i.e., color, shape, suit, rank, etc.). After the player makes a
wager to play the game, a first array of symbols from the initial
set of symbols is randomly or pseudo-randomly displayed in a first
predetermined area of the defined spaces (a grid will be discussed
for convenience) that is comprised of a predetermined number of
symbol areas that is less than the entire number of symbol areas.
At least one second array of symbols from the remaining initial set
of symbols is then displayed in a linear fashion outside of the
grid area. The at least one linear second set of symbols is then
distributed into at least a second area of the grid that may be
comprised of a predetermined number of symbol areas. The symbols in
the linear set may be provided one-at-a-time in a continuous
flowing manner into and through the symbol areas. The flow of the
symbols continues into and through the symbol areas until a
predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition may be
a predetermined relationship between a first provided symbol and a
particular symbol in the at least one second grid area and a
particular symbol in a separate grid area, and preferably includes
the position of each of the two symbols. The relationship of the
two symbols may be and is preferably based on at least one
characteristic of each symbol or a characteristic of the two
symbols considered together (e.g., alphabetical, numerical order,
relative size, etc.). As soon as the predetermined condition is
met, the flow of the symbols into the at least second grid area is
terminated. Any symbols that are stopped in a symbol area are
displayed in that area, and any symbols that are stopped outside of
the at least second grid area are discarded. The same symbol
distribution method is utilized for all remaining grid areas, the
final symbol display is then analyzed by the processor, and any
winning symbol combinations on a wagered payline are paid according
to a predetermined paytable.
[0043] The initial set of symbols as previously described may also
comprise special symbols. These special symbols may include wild
symbols, scatter-pay symbols, multipliers and the like. In addition
there may be included a special symbol that, when appearing as a
final symbol within the grid, causes at least one blank symbol area
to be populated with a symbol before the final symbol display is
analyzed for wins. For instance, in a game featuring colored star
symbols, a "Big Bang" symbol may be displayed in the final grid.
The "Big Bang" symbol may then "explode", distributing at least one
colored star symbol into at least one blank symbol area. An
exploding "Big Bang" symbol may randomly distribute any number of
colored stars, and these star symbols may be displayed in one, some
or all of the blank symbol areas. Any stars that emanate from the
"Big Bang" that do not come to rest inside the grid are discarded.
The final display is then analyzed for wins, and winning symbol
combinations are paid according to the predetermined paytable.
[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a video
slot game is discussed. The game consists of at least two parallel
columns or reel areas, the reel areas providing individual symbol
areas. A symbol area is defined by the intersection of one row and
one column. For instance, in a 5-column by 3-row symbol
configuration, there would be 15 symbol areas. Predetermined
paylines that intersect the symbol areas are available for
wagering. Preferably, the video slot game is a 5-reel.times.3-row
arrangement of 15 symbol areas, and at least 18 paylines are
offered. Preferably all paylines are horizontal, and at least one
payline may be a segment of a separate payline. The player chooses
the number of paylines upon which to wager, and the number of
credits to be wagered on each payline. The total wager is the
number of paylines times the number of credits per payline. Upon
making the game wager, the machine is activated to play the game,
randomly or pseudo-randomly displaying a first array of symbols
from an initial set of symbols into a first reel area. The symbols
in the initial set of symbols each bear at least one particular
characteristic (color, shape, rank, etc.). For example, the game
may utilize star symbols, each star symbol being colored either
red, orange, yellow, green, blue or purple; and from bottom (row 3)
to top (row 1), a red star, green star and yellow star (i.e.,
red-green-yellow) may be displayed on the first (left-hand) reel.
The second reel is then populated with a second array of symbols
from the remainder of symbols in the initial set of symbols by
utilizing the following method: a) preferably five symbols are
first linearly displayed in a screen area above the second reel
area (for example, a purple star may appear directly above the
second reel, an orange star above that purple star, a red star
above that orange star, a red star above that red star, and a
yellow star above that red star [i.e.,
purple-orange-red-red-yellow]); b) the linear display of symbols
above the second reel area moves down into the second reel area,
one-at-a-time and collectively as a group (continuing the example,
the purple star drops into the top symbol area [row 1] on the
second reel, and orange-red-red-yellow also drop down so that the
orange star is now displayed directly above the second reel); c)
the linear display of symbols continues to move down as in (b)
until a symbol in a row of the second reel matches a symbol in the
same row on the first reel or until all symbols have moved down and
out of the second reel area; d) the movement of the linear display
is terminated as soon as a first match is determined or until all
symbols in the linear display have exited through the second reel
area; and e) any symbols in the linear display that have stopped in
the second reel area are displayed on the second reel, and any
symbols not displayed in the second reel area are discarded. The
third reel is then populated with a third array of symbols from the
remainder of symbols in the initial set of symbols by utilizing the
same symbol-distribution method as for the second reel. The fourth
reel is then populated with a fourth array of symbols from the
remainder of symbols in the initial set of symbols by utilizing the
same symbol-distribution method as for the second reel. The fifth
and final reel is then populated with a fifth array of symbols from
the remainder of symbols in the initial set of symbols by utilizing
the same symbol-distribution method as for the second reel, and
final symbol result is shown. Depending on whether or not there was
a symbol match and the position of that matching symbol, the above
symbol-distribution method allows that either three symbols, two
symbols, one symbol or no symbols may appear on each reel 2-5. The
final symbol array is then analyzed, and any winning symbol
combination on a wagered payline is paid according to a
predetermined paytable.
[0045] The paylines in the preferred embodiment of the present
invention may be comprised of horizontal configurations only. Since
matching symbols in the same row on adjacent reels cause the
termination of further symbol distribution, there is a greater
likelihood that any final symbol combinations will be horizontally
displayed. Only-horizontal paylines may provide an opportunity for
the player to more clearly anticipate winning symbol combinations,
therefore adding to the excitement of the game. In addition,
anticipation may also be heightened by revealing the linear sets of
symbols prior to final placement, allowing the player to view
potential wins before the symbols are finalized in the reel area.
Moreover, horizontal paylines are traditionally
easier-to-understand than other paylines that include
diagonally-connecting or non-connecting symbols; therefore the
player may experience a more satisfying win when he understands
exactly why he won. In order to provide horizontal paylines only,
one payline may comprise a segment of a second payline. Paylines
preferably are determined on a left-to-right basis, and may begin
on the first, second, third or fourth reels. Paylines may be
comprised of two, three, four or five symbols, although paylines of
at least three symbols are preferred. In a 5-reel by 3-row grid,
reading from left to right, there are twelve 2-symbol paylines,
nine 3-symbol paylines, six 4-symbol paylines and three 5-symbol
paylines. FIG. 1 provides a more thorough description of the
paylines.
[0046] Reference to all of the Figures will assist in further
understanding of the practice of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 1 shows the configurations of the preferred paylines
according to the present invention. The 18 paylines (2, 4, 6, 8,
10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36) are all
horizontal, and each comprise either three, four or five symbol
areas. One payline may be a segment of a separate payline. For
instance, the 3.sup.rd payline 6 comprises a three symbol winning
combination, and the 12.sup.th payline 24 comprises a four symbol
winning combination.
[0048] FIG. 2 shows a slot machine monitor screen 2 with the result
of the completed spin after the player has wagered to play the
game. Fifteen individual symbol areas (130, 132, 134, 136, 138,
140, 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 154, 156, 158) are arranged in a
three-row (120, 122, 124) by five-column (110, 112, 114, 116, 118)
matrix. Three symbols are displayed in the first column 110,
comprising a red star 200 in symbol area 150, a green star 202 in
symbol area 140, and a yellow star 204 in symbol area 130. Five
symbols (300, 302, 304, 306, 308) are displayed, from bottom to
top, above the second column 112. Five symbols (400, 402, 404, 406,
408) are displayed, from bottom to top, above the third column 114.
Five symbols (500, 502, 504, 506, 508) are displayed, from bottom
to top, above the fourth column 116. Five symbols (600, 602, 604,
606, 608) are displayed, from bottom to top, above the fifth column
118.
[0049] FIG. 3 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 2 with the
five symbols (300, 302, 304, 306, 308) moving downward as a group,
with the first symbol 300 being displayed in the top symbol area
132 of the second column 112. The symbol group will continue to
descend until one symbol in the second column matches a symbol in
the first column and same row.
[0050] FIG. 4 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 3 with the
five symbols (300, 302, 304, 306, 308) moving further downward as a
group, with the first symbol 300 now being displayed in the middle
symbol area 142 of the second column 112. Again, the symbol group
will continue to descend until one symbol in the second column
matches a symbol in the first column and same row.
[0051] FIG. 5 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 4 with the
five symbols (300, 302, 304, 306, 308) moving further downward as a
group, with the first symbol 300 now being displayed in the bottom
symbol area 152 of the second column 112. Again, the symbol group
will continue to descend until one symbol in the second column
matches a symbol in the first column and same row.
[0052] FIG. 6 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 5 with the
five symbols (300, 302, 304, 306, 308) moving further downward as a
group, with the first symbol 300 now being displayed below and
outside of the second column 112. Again, the symbol group will
continue to descend until one symbol in the second column matches a
symbol in the first column and same row.
[0053] FIG. 7 refers refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 6
with the first symbol 300 having been discarded after passing
outside of the second column area. Four of the five remaining
symbols (302, 304, 306, 308) have moved further downward as a
group, with the second symbol 302 now being displayed below and
outside of the second column 112. In this move, a red star symbol
304 in the second column now matches the red star symbol 200 in the
first column and in the same row.
[0054] FIG. 8 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 7 with the
symbol distribution being terminated according to the predetermined
condition as taught in the description above (i.e, the red star
symbol 304 in the second column matches the red star symbol 200 in
the first column). The second symbol 302 has been discarded, as it
was displayed outside of the second column area when the
predetermined condition was met.
[0055] FIG. 9 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 8 with the
five symbols (400, 402, 404, 406, 408) having moved downward in the
third column 114 as taught in FIGS. 2 through 8. The symbol
distribution is shown terminated according to the predetermined
condition as taught in the description above (i.e, the red star
symbol 408 in the third column matches the red star symbol 306 in
the second column), and symbols displayed outside of the third
column area have been discarded.
[0056] FIG. 10 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 9 with the
five symbols (500, 502, 504, 506, 508) having moved downward in the
fourth column 116 as taught in FIGS. 2 through 8. The symbol
distribution is shown terminated according to the predetermined
condition as taught in the description above (i.e, the red star
symbol 500 in the third column matches the red star symbol 408 in
the third column), and symbols displayed outside of the fourth
column area have been discarded.
[0057] FIG. 11 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 10 with
the five symbols (600, 602, 604, 606, 608) having moved downward in
the fifth column 118 as taught in FIGS. 2 through 8. The symbol
distribution is shown terminated according to the predetermined
condition as taught in the description above (i.e, the red star
symbol 604 in the fifth column matches the red star symbol 500 in
the fourth column), and symbols displayed outside of the fifth
column area have been discarded. This completes the final result of
the spin.
[0058] FIG. 12 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 11. A
first winning payline 4 (see FIG. 1) comprising three symbols (306,
408, 500) is highlighted.
[0059] FIG. 13 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 11. A
second winning payline 7 (see FIG. 1) comprising three symbols
(408, 500, 604) is highlighted.
[0060] FIG. 14 refers to the game elements shown in FIG. 11. A
third winning payline 13 (see FIG. 1) comprising four symbols (306,
408, 500, 604) is highlighted.
[0061] The present technology may be described generally as
including a method of playing a video wagering game having steps
of:
[0062] a player placing a wager on the video wagering game;
[0063] providing the player with multiple spaces in which symbols
will be displayed;
[0064] providing a first number of symbols into a first set of
adjacent spaces;
[0065] providing at least a first symbol of a second set of symbols
into a second set of adjacent spaces, the at least first symbol of
the second set of symbols first positioned adjacent a first symbol
of the first number of symbols;
[0066] wherein a) if the at least first symbol of the second set of
symbols has a predetermined relationship with the adjacent first
symbol of the first number of symbols, no more symbols are provided
into the second set of symbols and a first symbol of a third set of
symbols is provided, and
[0067] b) if there is no predetermined relationship, providing at
least a second symbol of a second set of symbols into the second
set of adjacent spaces, the at least second symbol of the second
set of symbols being positioned adjacent a first symbol of the
first number of symbols, and the at least first symbol of the
second set of symbols being positioned adjacent a second symbol of
the first number of symbols; and if step b) is performed such that:
[0068] i) if either the at least first symbol of the second set of
symbols has a predetermined relationship with the adjacent second
symbol of the first number of symbols or an at least second symbol
of the second number of symbols has a predetermined relationship
with the first symbol of the first number of symbols, no more
symbols are provided into the first set of symbols and the second
set of symbols and at least a first symbol of a third set of
symbols is provided; and [0069] ii) if neither the at least first
symbol of the second set of symbols has a predetermined
relationship with the adjacent second symbol of the first number of
symbols nor an at least second symbol of the second number of
symbols has a predetermined relationship with the first symbol of
the first number of symbols, providing at least a third symbol of
the second set of symbols into the second set of adjacent spaces,
the at least third symbol of the second set of symbols being
positioned adjacent the first symbol of the first number of
symbols, the at least second symbol of the second set of symbols
positioned adjacent the second symbol of the first number of
symbols and the at least first symbol of the second set of symbols
being positioned adjacent a third symbol of the first number of
symbols; wherein c) if the at least first symbol of the second set
of symbols has a predetermined relationship with the adjacent third
symbol of the first number of symbols, the at least second symbol
of the second set of symbols has a predetermined relationship with
the second symbol of the first set of symbols, or the at least
third symbol of the second set of symbols has a predetermined
relationship with the first symbol of the first set of symbols, no
more symbols are provided into the second set of symbols and a
first symbol of a third set of symbols is provided,
[0070] completing at least a first payline including the at least
first symbol of the first number of symbols; and
[0071] providing awards for all paylines that have at least one
predetermined combination of winning symbols in the payline.
[0072] Each column is filled (up to the limit of available symbols
or until there is a symbol relationship established with a symbol
in a previous adjacent column) one symbol at a time so that players
can view whether each placement establishes a relationship or not.
The filling of each column (after the first column) is performed
one column at a time. The available payline relationships (as shown
in FIG. 1) are easily understood by the player, as opposed to many
of the available multi-line paylines.
[0073] At least three adjacent paylines may have to be completed
with at least three, four or five symbols provided in at least one
payline, whether paylines are linear or not. There may be a
maximum, predetermined number of symbols available in each set of
symbols after the first set (e.g., the second column, third column,
forth column and/or fifth column), whether or not a predetermined
relationship is achieved between adjacent symbols in a payline. In
providing the columns of symbols, all sets of numbers of symbols
may be displayed above the individual columns after a first column
before all numbers of symbols are provided to those individual
columns. A 3 row.times.5 column matrix of spaces is preferably
provided for symbols. In one embodiment, only three symbols are
provided into a first column and at least 3-5 symbols are available
for each remaining four columns. The process may be played on a
traditional video gaming platform having a housing, a video display
monitor and a processor containing software enabling execution of
the method on the video display monitor.
[0074] Those trained in the art will appreciate that these play
options are exemplary and are not intended to dictate an exclusive
method of play, nor limit or restrict specific gameplay. Although
specific examples and specific images have been provided in this
discussion, these specifics are intended to be only support for the
generic concepts of the invention and are not intended to be
absolute limits in the scope of the technology discussed.
* * * * *