U.S. patent application number 12/387805 was filed with the patent office on 2010-11-11 for gaming machine with game freeze feature.
Invention is credited to Elia Rocco Tarantino.
Application Number | 20100285878 12/387805 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43062655 |
Filed Date | 2010-11-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100285878 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tarantino; Elia Rocco |
November 11, 2010 |
Gaming machine with game freeze feature
Abstract
The game freeze feature allows a player to pause or suspend play
at a gaming machine and later resume play. The player may suspend
play during a game or between games as desired. In one embodiment,
the player must provide authenticating information to suspend a
game. The authenticating information may subsequently be used to
resume the suspended game. If a game is not resumed within an
allotted time limit, the player's credits, wager, or both may be
forfeited and the game reset to allow a new game to be played. The
player may reclaim forfeited wagers and credits by providing the
authenticating information used to suspend a game. The game freeze
feature provides the benefit of allowing players to reserve gaming
machines or to take a break from play.
Inventors: |
Tarantino; Elia Rocco; (Las
Vegas, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WEIDE & MILLER, LTD.
7251 W. LAKE MEAD BLVD., SUITE 530
LAS VEGAS
NV
89128
US
|
Family ID: |
43062655 |
Appl. No.: |
12/387805 |
Filed: |
May 6, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/36 ;
463/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3239 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/36 ;
463/29 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming machine comprising: a display; a freeze button; a
resume button; and a processor configured to present a game to a
player on said display and to suspend play of said game on said
gaming machine for a predetermined period of time in response to
activation of said freeze button by said player whereby play of
said game resumes in response to activation of said resume button
by said player within said predetermined period of time.
2. The gaming machine of claim 1, where said processor suspends
play of said game by ignoring further input to said gaming machine
other than input received from said resume button.
3. The gaming machine of claim 1 further comprising one or more
player input devices configured to receive authenticating
information from said player whereby play of said game on said
gaming machine resumes only if said authenticating information
verifies the identity of said player.
4. The gaming machine of claim 1 further comprising a card reader
configured to read authenticating information from a player
tracking card of said player whereby play of said game on said
gaming machine resumes only if said authenticating information
verifies the identity of said player.
5. The gaming machine of claim 1 further comprising a memory device
configured to store game information selected from the group
consisting of the number of credits in said gaming machine and the
amount of wagers in said gaming machine whereby if said game is not
resumed within said predetermined period of time said game
information is stored on said memory device and said gaming machine
is reset to allow play of a new game.
6. The gaming machine of claim 5, wherein said game is forfeited if
said game is not resumed within said predetermined period of
time.
7. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein said display provides a
notification to said player when play of said game is
suspended.
8. The gaming machine of claim 7, wherein said notification
includes a remaining time for suspension of play of said game, said
remaining time being at least a portion of said predetermined
period of time.
9. A method for providing a game freeze feature on a gaming machine
comprising: providing a gaming machine comprising a display, a
freeze button, and a resume button; accepting one or more credits
from said player; presenting a game to a player on said gaming
machine whereby said player is paid an award for achieving a
winning outcome; suspending play of said game at said gaming
machine for a predetermined period of time if said player activates
said freeze button; displaying a notification on said display
indicating that play of said game is suspended; and resuming play
of said game at said gaming machine if said player activates said
resume button within said predetermined period of time.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein suspending play of said game at
said gaming machine comprises ignoring further input to said gaming
machine other than input received from said resume button.
11. The method of claim 9 further comprising accepting a first
authenticating information from said player prior to suspending
play of said game.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising accepting a second
authenticating information from said player prior to resuming play
of said game whereby play of said game resumes only if said first
authenticating information and said second authenticating
information match.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein said first authenticating
information and said second authenticating information are accepted
via a card reader of said gaming machine.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein said first authenticating
information and said second authenticating information are accepted
via one or more player input devices of said gaming machine.
15. The method of claim 11 further comprising: forfeiting said one
or more credits if play of said game is not resumed within said
predetermined period of time; and resetting said gaming machine for
a new game.
16. The method of claim 15 further comprising accepting a second
authenticating information from said player to reclaim said one or
more credits if said second authenticating information and said
first authenticating information match.
17. A game freeze device for a gaming machine comprising: a freeze
button; a resume button; and a controller connected to a processor
and a display of a gaming machine, said controller configured to
provide a game freeze feature to said gaming machine whereby said
controller suspends play of a game for a predetermined period of
time on said gaming machine when said freeze button is activated
and resumes play of said game when said resume button is
activated.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein said controller provides a
notification on said display indicating play of said game is
suspended when play of said game is suspended.
19. The gaming machine of claim 17, wherein said controller is
connected to and intercepts communication from one or more player
input devices of said gaming machine when play of said game is
suspended.
20. The gaming machine of claim 17, wherein said controller
receives authenticating information from a player via one or more
player input devices of a gaming machine and resumes play of said
game on said gaming machine only if said authenticating information
verifies the identity of said player.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to gaming machines and
wagering games, and specifically to a game freeze feature for one
or more games presented on gaming machines.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Traditional gaming machines present one or more games to a
player. Typically, a game is presented in response to the player
placing a wager at the gaming machine. The player may play one or
more games as desired by placing one or more wagers. It is common
for players to play a single gaming machine for a period of
time.
[0003] One problem with traditional gaming machines is that they
are not configured to allow players to take a break. Prior to
leaving a gaming machine, the player must finish his or her current
game and cash out any credits remaining in the gaming machine. For
example, a player who wishes to get a beverage, use the phone, or
go to the restroom must first finish his or her current game and
cash out before leaving the gaming machine. If the player does not,
the player's game and credits remain in the machine, which is
accessible to any passersby who may take the player's credits or
play the player's game without permission.
[0004] Another problem with leaving a traditional gaming machine is
that another player may start playing the gaming machine once a
player leaves. This can occur even if the first player is gone only
for a short period of time. This can be troublesome to the first
player who may wish to continue playing the same gaming machine.
For example, the first player may believe the gaming machine is
about to payout an award or "hit" and desire to continue playing
the same gaming machine. If the player must leave the machine for
even a short period of time, he or she risks losing the machine to
another player.
[0005] Thus, what is provided herein is a novel gaming machine and
method therefor for providing a game freeze feature.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A game freeze feature is disclosed herein. As discussed
below, the game freeze feature generally allows a player to suspend
and later resume play of a game at a gaming machine. This is
advantageous in that it allows player to take a break from playing
a game as well as reserve their favorite or "lucky" gaming machines
for a period of time. In one or more embodiments, the game freeze
feature protects suspended games from tampering by requiring
authenticating information. It is contemplated that a suspension of
a game may be limited to a time period and that the player may
forfeit credits, games, or both if a game is not resumed in
time.
[0007] In one or more embodiments, the game freeze feature may be
provided by a gaming machine comprising a display, a freeze button,
a resume button, and a processor configured to present a game to a
player on the display. The processor may also be configured to
suspend play of the game on the gaming machine for a predetermined
period of time in response to activation of the freeze button by
the player whereby play of the game resumes in response to
activation of the resume button by the player within the
predetermined period of time. Play may be suspended in a variety of
ways. In one embodiment, the processor suspends play of the game by
ignoring further input to the gaming machine other than input
received from the resume button. When play of the game is
suspended, the display may provide a notification of the same to
the player. The notification may provide the remaining time for
suspension of play of the game which will typically be at least a
portion of the predetermined period of time.
[0008] In one embodiment, the gaming machine may include one or
more player input devices or a card reader configured to receive
authenticating information from the player whereby play of the game
on the gaming machine resumes only if the authenticating
information verifies the identity of the player.
[0009] In another embodiment, the gaming machine may include a
memory device configured to store game information, such as but not
limited to, the number of credits in the gaming machine and the
amount of wagers in the gaming machine, whereby if the game is not
resumed within the predetermined period of time the game
information is stored on the memory device and the gaming machine
is reset to allow play of a new game. Once the gaming information
is stored, the game may be forfeited if the game is not resumed
within the predetermined period of time.
[0010] A method for providing a game freeze feature on a gaming
machine is also provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises
accepting one or more credits from the player, presenting a game to
a player on the gaming machine whereby the player is paid an award
for achieving a winning outcome, suspending play of the game at the
gaming machine for a predetermined period of time if the player
activates the freeze button, displaying a notification on the
display indicating that play of the game is suspended, and resuming
play of the game at the gaming machine if the player activates the
resume button within the predetermined period of time.
[0011] In one embodiment, the method may include accepting a first
authenticating information from the player prior to suspending play
of the game. In this embodiment, a second authenticating
information may be accepted prior to resuming play of the game
whereby play of the game resumes only if the first authenticating
information and the second authenticating information match. It is
noted that the first authenticating information and the second
authenticating information may be accepted via a card reader or one
or more player input devices of the gaming machine. A second
authenticating information may also be accepted from the player to
allow the player reclaim his or her forfeited credits, if the
second authenticating information matches the first authenticating
information.
[0012] In another embodiment, a game freeze device for a gaming
machine may be provided. The game freeze device may comprise a
freeze button, a resume button, and a controller connected to a
processor and a display of a gaming machine. The controller may be
configured to provide the game freeze feature to the gaming machine
whereby the controller suspends play of a game for a predetermined
period of time on the gaming machine when the freeze button is
activated and resumes play of the game when the resume button is
activated. As with the above, the controller may provide a
notification on the display indicating play of the game is
suspended when play of the game is suspended. In one embodiment, to
suspend play, the controller may intercept communication from one
or more player input devices of the gaming machine.
[0013] Further objects, features, and advantages of the present
invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed
description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the
attached figures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale,
emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of
the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate
corresponding parts throughout the different views.
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a gaming machine and system in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the components of a
gaming machine according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a screen display according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the
game freeze feature during a game according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the
game freeze feature between games according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0020] FIGS. 6A-6E illustrate screen displays of the game freeze
feature in operation according to various embodiments of the
invention; and
[0021] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating components of a game
freeze device according to an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the
present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in
the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0023] In general, the gaming machine with game freeze feature
allows a game being played on a gaming machine to be paused or
suspended for a period of time and then resumed later at the same
gaming machine. This is advantageous in that it allows a player to
leave the machine such as to take a break, use the restroom, get
refreshments, socialize, or for various other reasons and then
resume his or her game. In addition, this allows a player to
reserve a gaming machine for a period of time so that the player
may later return to the same gaming machine. This is advantageous
in that players often desire to play the same gaming machine on the
belief that the machine is about to hit or is a lucky machine. The
game freeze feature allows a player the freedom to leave for a
period of time without the risk of another player taking the
machine. The game freeze feature may require authentication
information to resume a game in order to prevent unauthorized
access to a suspended gaming machine. As will be described further
below, authentication information may be a code, PIN, password,
phrase, or other information.
[0024] The game freeze feature is distinguishable from traditional
save/restore schemes where games may be saved to a memory device
and later resumed by retrieving and reloading or restoring the
saved game. In one or more embodiments, the game freeze feature
does not save a game but rather freezes or suspends the game such
as by preventing further user input or by holding a game and/or
gaming machine in its current state, as will be described further
below.
[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a gaming machine 100 at
which the game freeze features of the invention may be implemented.
In one embodiment, the gaming machine 100 is a wager-based gaming
machine configured to present one or more games to a player, which
games offer the possibility of an award of winnings. Of course, the
gaming machine 100 could be configured to present games or amusing
activities based upon payment and either no award winnings or offer
the opportunity for points, tickets, prizes or the like.
[0026] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 100 defines a
generally enclosed interior space for housing one or more
components. As illustrated, the gaming machine 100 generally
comprises a housing or cabinet 102 for supporting and/or enclosing
various components required for operation of the gaming machine. In
the embodiment illustrated, the housing 102 may include a door 106
located at a front thereof, the door capable of being moved between
an open position which allows access to the interior and a closed
position in which access to the interior is generally prevented.
The configuration of the gaming machine 100 may vary. In the
embodiment illustrated, the gaming machine 100 has an "upright"
configuration. However, the gaming machine 100 could have other
configurations, shapes or dimensions (such as being of a
"slant"-type or other configuration as is well known to those of
skill in the art). It is noted that the configuration of the door
106 may vary, such as dependent upon the configuration of the
gaming machine 100.
[0027] The gaming machine 100 preferably includes at least one
display device 104 configured to display game information. The
display device 104 may be a mechanical, electromechanical or
electronic display, such as one or more rotating reels, a video
display or the like. When the display device 104 is an electronic
video display, it may comprise a cathode ray tube (CRT), high
resolution flat panel liquid crystal display (LCD), projection LCD,
plasma display, field emission display, digital micro-mirror
display (DMD), digital light processing display (DLP), LCD
touchscreen, a light emitting display (LED) or other suitable
displays now known or later developed, in a variety of resolutions,
sizes and formats (e.g. 4:3, widescreen or the like). The display
104 may be capable of projecting or displaying a wide variety of
information, including images, symbols and other indicia or
information associated with game play, game promotion or other
events.
[0028] The gaming machine 100 may be configured to present a wide
variety of games. These may include games in Class III, such as
video poker games, slot-type games, and blackjack or other card,
dice or various other games now known or later developed, as well
as games in Class II, including central determinant games such a
video lottery, bingo and bingo-based games, and other games now
known or later developed. The games may also be skill based or
include one or more skill components. In one embodiment, certain
game outcomes may be designated as winning outcomes. Awards may be
provided for winning outcomes, such as monetary payments (or
representations thereof, such as award of credits), prizes or the
like. As is well known in the art, the number of winning outcomes
may vary dependent upon the desired payout or winning percentage
offered to the players as compared to wagers that are retained by
the gaming establishment.
[0029] The gaming machine 100 may include one or more player input
devices 108 (such as input buttons, a touch-screen display,
joystick, touch-pad or the like) that may be utilized by the player
to facilitate game play. The gaming machine 100 may include a coin
accepting mechanism 112 for accepting coins and/or a currency or
bill acceptor 114 for accepting cash or paper currency. It is also
contemplated that other mechanisms may be provided for accepting
value for game play, such as credit card, ticket readers or input
devices whereby a player may have funds paid from a remote account.
The gaming machine 100 may also include a "bet credit" button 118
or the like, such as to permit a player to wager monetary credits
credited to the machine.
[0030] In one preferred embodiment, the gaming machine 100 includes
one or more microprocessors or controllers for controlling the
gaming machine, including receiving player input and sending output
signals for controlling the various components of the machine 100
(such as generating game information for display by the display
104). The controller may be arranged to send signals for
determining winning combinations and to cause the display 104 to
display winning amount information. In addition, the controller is
preferably arranged to determine if a round of game play has
resulted in a win, and if so, the amount to be paid to the player
for that win.
[0031] The gaming machine 100 may include a means for paying a
player any winnings accumulated during game play. For example, a
"cash out" button 116 may be provided for permitting a player to be
paid the winnings or redeeming any credits initially paid into the
gaming machine 100. The term "cash out" is used herein to define an
event initiated by the player wherein the player receives a number
of coins or currency that is equivalent to the value of the
player's accrued credit base. Typically when a player cashes out,
the player receives either a paper currency voucher or currency in
the form of a coin disbursement. If the player decides to receive a
coin disbursement, the gaming machine 100 may activate a coin
hopper or coin handling device (not shown) which physically counts
and delivers the proper number of coins to the player. The coin
handling device is commonly configured to transport coins from a
supply source (hopper or bin filled with coins) to a coin tray or
payout receptacle where the player physically receives the coins.
The player might also elect to cash out by having a ticket or other
media dispensed, such as via a printer.
[0032] The gaming machine 100 may be configured as a stand-alone
device or be in communication with one or more external devices at
one or more times. For example, the gaming machine 100 may be
configured as a server based device and obtain game code or game
outcome information from a remote server. The gaming machine 100
may also communicate with one or more gaming servers 120. These one
or more gaming servers 120 may be configured to perform accounting,
player tracking, bonusing, game generation, or other functions.
[0033] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 100 may include
various hardware and/or software for implanting a gaming machine or
game "freeze" feature in accordance with the invention.
[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates the components of an exemplary gaming
machine. As shown, the gaming machine comprises a processor 204,
display 104, a memory device 216, one or more player input devices
108, and a random number generator 220. A gaming machine may also
comprise one or more peripherals 208 to facilitate play of a game
such as card readers, coin acceptors, bill acceptors, coin hoppers,
ticket/receipt printers or dispensers, and the like, as detailed
above.
[0035] The gaming machine may also include a transceiver 212 to
allow the gaming machine to communicate with external devices such
as other gaming machines, game controllers, progressive
controllers, gaming servers, and the like. The transceiver 212 may
allow wired or wireless communications via one or more network or
other connections. It will be understood that the game freeze
feature may be implemented in various embodiments of gaming
machines that may include additional or other electronic
components, or that may not require one or more of the components
illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0036] As indicated, the gaming machine may include a random number
generator 220 for use in generating random game results or
outcomes. It is noted that the random number generator 220 may be a
separate component or part of another component, such as the
processor 204, in one or more embodiments. The random number
generator 220 may be configured to provide one or more random
numbers to facilitate the play of one or more games. As is known,
random numbers are commonly used in wagering games to provide an
outcome of a game.
[0037] The random number generator 220 may accept one or more seed
values in one or more embodiments from which one or more random
numbers may be generated. The seed value may represent various
tangible objects or characteristics. For example, a measurement of
vibration, temperature, voltage, or time may be used as a seed
value. It is noted that the random number generator 220 may include
or be connected to one or more sensors or the like to measure these
or other values for use as seed values. It is also noted that in
server based gaming environments, the random number generator 220
may be remote from one or more gaming machines and that the random
numbers generated by the random number generator may be
communicated to the gaming machines and/or game outcomes may be
provided to the gaming machine.
[0038] In general, the processor 204 may be a microprocessor,
circuit, or the like configured to process input and generate
output to present one or more games, provide the game freeze
feature, or both. In one or more embodiments, the processor 204 may
execute machine readable code to present one or more games, provide
the game freeze feature, or both. In one or more embodiments, the
machine readable code comprises instructions that the processor 204
may execute to provide the game freeze feature as described herein.
The output from the processor 204 may be used to control or
communicate with other components connected to the processor such
as a display 104, transceiver 212, or gaming machine peripherals
208. A processor 204 may accept input from one or more player input
devices 108 or other components connected to the processor.
[0039] In one or more embodiments, the processor 204 may be
connected to a memory device 216 configured to store data. The
memory device 216 may be various types of electronic memory, now
known or later developed, including but not limited to magnetic,
flash, or optical memory.
[0040] The memory device 216 may be configured to store machine
readable code for one or more games. In this manner, the processor
204 may retrieve and execute machine readable code to present one
or more games or other gaming machine features to players. It is
noted that a processor 204 may include its own memory in some
embodiments. In addition, the machine readable code may be
hardwired into the circuitry of a processor 204. In these
embodiments, a separate memory device 216 may not be required.
[0041] It is contemplated that a memory device 216 may also be
configured to store information for one or more games. For example,
information related to the play or execution of a game such as but
not limited to credits, amounts wagered, amounts won, one or more
paytables, winning outcomes, paylines, jackpot amounts, bonuses,
and randomly generated numbers may be stored in the memory device
216. Game freeze information which generally refers to information
related to providing the game freeze feature may also be stored.
For example, a memory device 216 may be used to store information
indicating whether or not a game is suspended as well as one or
more passwords, codes, or other information that must be inputted
to resume a suspended game. It will be understood that other
information related to presenting a game or providing the game
freeze feature may be stored as well.
[0042] As will be described further below, a player may engage a
player input device 108 to suspend a game as well as to resume a
suspended game. Engaging the appropriate player input device 108
may send a signal or information to the processor 204 indicating
the player desires to suspend or resume a game. The processor 204
may then execute one or more functions to suspend or resume a game
as appropriate.
[0043] In one or more embodiments, the player input devices 108 may
comprise a freeze button, a resume button, or both. Of course,
player input devices 108 (including touch screen input to a video
display, such as display 104) other than buttons may be used to
suspend or resume a game. This is illustrated in FIG. 3, which
shows an exemplary display 104 presenting a slot game along with a
freeze button 308 and a resume button 312 thereon. In the
embodiment shown, the player input devices 108, including the
freeze button 308 and the resume button 312 are touch screen
buttons. It will be understood that the freeze button 308 and the
resume button 312 may be push button type devices as well, such as
shown in FIG. 1. It is contemplated that a single button may be
both a freeze button and a resume button in some embodiments. For
example, a button may be activated to suspend a game and the same
button may be activated again to resume the game from its suspended
state. Though labeled respectively as "freeze" and "resume", it is
noted that the freeze button 308 and the resume button 312, or a
single button that functions as both, may be labeled differently
with various characters or symbols as desired. In general, the
labels will typically convey the function of the button should it
be activated or engaged.
[0044] As can be seen from FIG. 3, the game freeze feature allows a
player to suspend play between games. For example, in the slot
embodiment of FIG. 3, the player may suspend play after the outcome
of a game has been achieved, such as after a spin of slot game
reels (video animated or physical reels). As shown, the player has
10 credits in the gaming machine. The player may suspend play with
the game freeze feature leaving the 10 credits in the gaming
machine. The player may then take a break and then resume the game
later with his or her 10 credits at the same gaming machine. In
this manner, the player does not have to cash out even if he or she
physically leaves the gaming machine.
[0045] The game freeze feature also allows a player to suspend play
during a game. For example, the player may suspend a game after it
has been started, such as when a wager has been placed, and before
an outcome is obtained. This is advantageous in card type games
such as blackjack or poker because rounds or hands of these games
may provide a convenient point for a player to suspend a game. In
addition, additional cards or indicia may be displayed during a
single round or hand. The game freeze feature allows the game
(whether card based or not) to be suspended prior to or after these
events or at other times during a game.
[0046] It is contemplated that the game freeze feature may also be
used to suspend play of various types of games, including
mechanical reel type games, video games such as video slots and
video poker, and various other games such as keno, bingo and
others. For example, in one embodiment, the game freeze feature may
suspend a game as one or more reels are spinning. In another
embodiment, the game freeze feature may suspend a slot type game
before, during, or after a bonus round. Of course, as stated, the
game freeze feature may be used to suspend a slot game at other
times during a game as well. The player may resume the game later
as desired. It is contemplated that the game freeze feature may be
used multiple times during and in between one or more games.
Preferably, when play is suspended, other players or people will
not be allowed to access or play the suspended gaming machine.
[0047] Play may be suspended in various ways. In one embodiment,
play may be suspended by locking a gaming machine such that no
input other than that related to resuming play is permitted. For
example, input other than that from a resume button or
authenticating information for resuming play may be ignored. This
prevents any currently played game from progressing and prevents
new games from being started. Play may also be suspended by holding
a game at its present state and ignoring input not related to
resuming play. For example, the position of reels, display of
indicia, number of credits/wagers, and other information related to
a game may be preserved as is in a memory device
[0048] A gaming machine may also display a notification that play
has been suspended or that the gaming machine has been frozen in
one or more embodiments. The notification may cover some or all of
a gaming machine's display to ensure that players are aware play
has been suspended. Other types of indicators could be provided,
such as de-illuminating all of the buttons of the gaming machine,
displaying a blank screen on the gaming machine display, etc.
[0049] In one embodiment, as will be discussed further below,
proper authenticating information may be required to freeze and/or
resume game play. As used herein, authenticating information refers
to a code, password, phrase, player identifier, or other
information that a player enters to freeze play, resume play, or
both. Typically, authenticating information will be used to verify
the player's identity such that only the player who suspended play
at a gaming machine can resume play at the gaming machine.
[0050] Authenticating information may be provided to the player
such as on a gaming machine display, printed ticket or receipt,
player tracking card, or the like. It is contemplated that
authenticating information may also be provided via email, text
messaging, or other electronic communications mechanisms. In one
embodiment, authenticating information may be given to a player
verbally or on various mediums by gaming establishment personnel
such as but not limited to bartenders, wait staff, and
cashiers.
[0051] Authenticating information may also be provided by the
player. For example, a player may select his or her authenticating
information may inputting a password or code to a gaming machine or
other device. In general, authenticating information will be used
to verify that the player resuming play at a gaming machine is the
same player that suspended play at the gaming machine.
[0052] It is noted that, in one or more embodiments, a game may
only be suspended for a limited time. This may be beneficial to a
gaming establishment that does not want a plurality of machines to
be unavailable to other players because they are suspended. Various
time limits may be set as desired ranging from seconds, minutes,
hours, and longer. In a preferred embodiment, the time limit may be
one or more minutes such as 3, 5, 10, 15, or 20 minutes. If play is
not resumed within the time limit the player may forfeit the game,
any credits in the gaming machine, or both. In one or more
embodiments, the player may be provided a printed ticket or receipt
when play is suspended. The ticket may be provided to a gaming
machine or establishment to reclaim some or all the credits in a
gaming machine that was not resumed within the time limit. In other
embodiments, authenticating information, such as a password or
code, or a player tracking card may inputted or inserted in a
gaming machine when suspending a game and be later used to reclaim
credits.
[0053] Players may have to meet certain criteria to be allowed to
suspend play in one or more embodiments. For example, a player may
be required to insert a player tracking card or input
authenticating information before the game freeze feature will be
provided to the player. This is beneficial in that credits may be
returned to a player identified by a player tracking card or
authenticating information if a game is not resumed within the
allotted time limit or if the game is not resumed at all. In one or
more embodiments, players may have to acknowledge or agree to
various instructions, terms, or conditions before the game freeze
feature will by provided. For example, a player may have to
acknowledge that a game may only be suspended for a limited time
and that placed wagers, credits, or both may be forfeited if the
game is not resumed within the time limit or at all. In other
embodiments, players may have to ask permission from gaming
establishment personnel to suspend a game. For example, the game
freeze feature may not be available unless authorized by such
personnel. In one embodiment, a player must request and receive
authenticating information, such as a password, from gaming
establishment personnel and correctly input the authenticating
information into a gaming machine before play may be suspended.
[0054] Operation of the gaming machine or game freeze feature in
accordance with one embodiment of the invention will now be
described. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the game freeze feature in operation during the play
of a game. At a step 404, a wager is accepted from a player at a
gaming machine. As is known, this may occur in various ways
including but not limited to accepting currency, tokens, credits,
or the like in physical or electronic form through a card reader,
bill acceptor, coin slot, or the like. It is noted that the wager
may come from one or more credits a player already has in a gaming
machine as well.
[0055] Once a wager has been accepted, the gaming machine may start
a wagering game where the player may win a payout or other award.
In one embodiment, the wagering game may start by dealing or
revealing one or more cards, symbols, or other indicia. As shown in
the exemplary display of FIG. 6A, five cards 604 are revealed in a
poker type wagering game to start the game. In another embodiment,
the wagering game may start by activating one or more player input
devices which allow the player to provide input (i.e. play a game)
such as to reveal one or more indicia such as by spinning one or
more reels.
[0056] It is contemplated that the game freeze feature may be
enabled and activated by a player after a game has started. As
shown in FIG. 6A, the freeze button 308 is enabled while the resume
button 312 is disabled after the start of the game. As illustrated
in FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not a player desires to
suspend a game at a step 412. If the player does not suspend the
game at step 412, the game continues at step 424 until the game
ends at step 428. In one or more embodiments the game may end with
the player winning an award, achieving a draw, or losing his or her
wager.
[0057] If the player does suspend the game at step 412, such as by
activating a freeze button, play will be suspended at step 416. It
is noted that the player may suspend play of a game in various
ways. In one embodiment, the player may press or otherwise activate
a player input device 108 such as those illustrated in FIG. 1. In
another embodiment, the player may activate a touch screen freeze
button 308, such as illustrated in FIG. 6A or 6B, by touching or
engaging the freeze button.
[0058] It will be understood that the game freeze feature may be
used at various times during a game. For example, the game freeze
feature may be used after the start of a game such as in FIG. 6A
where an initial hand of cards has been dealt. In addition, the
game freeze feature may be activated at different stages of or at
different times during a game. For example, FIG. 6B shows that a
freeze button 308 may be activated after the player chooses which
of five cards to hold in a poker game.
[0059] Suspension of play of a game may occur in various ways. In
one embodiment, a gaming machine may suspend a game by preventing
further input except for input directed to resuming a suspended
game. The gaming machine may also provide notification that a game
has been suspended. As shown in FIG. 6C, the gaming machine may
display a screen indicating that a game has been suspended. The
display of game symbols, indicia, or the like may be cleared from
the screen. The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 6C also provides a
notification of the time remaining for the game to remain suspended
as well as an enabled resume button 312 to allow a player to resume
a game. It is contemplated that promotional displays such as
advertising may also be displayed. The freeze button 308 may be
deactivated such as shown in FIG. 6C when a game is suspended. This
prevents confusion as a suspended game may generally not be
suspended again.
[0060] In one or more embodiments, authenticating information, such
as a password, may be collected from the player at step 416. The
player may then be required to input authenticating information in
order to resume the suspended game. In this manner, only an
authorized player or the player that suspended the game may resume
play. A prompt or other screen display, such as illustrated in FIG.
6D, may be presented on a gaming machine to collect such password,
code, or other authenticating information from a player. Typically
the screen display will be presented after the player indicates,
such as by activating a freeze button 308, that he or she wishes to
suspend a game. The player may enter authenticating information
utilizing a number or key pad presented on the gaming machine such
as in FIG. 6D. It is contemplated that the authenticating
information may also be entered through one or more player input
devices. In addition, a button panel or keyboard such as that of a
player tracking device may also be used to input authenticating
information. In other embodiments, a player may be provided a
ticket or receipt having previously generated authenticating
information thereon when the player suspends play of a game. The
ticket or receipt may be printed or dispensed from the gaming
machine in one or more embodiments.
[0061] In some embodiments, where a player has inserted a player
tracking card, authenticating information may be read from the
player tracking card or a player tracking account linked to the
card. In these embodiments, the player may be required to remove
his or her player tracking card to suspend play. This prevents a
player from leaving his or her player tracking card behind and
potentially losing the card. The player tracking card may then be
subsequently reinserted to resume the game and verify that the
player who suspended the game is resuming the game. In other
embodiments, a player may briefly insert and remove a player
tracking card to input authenticating information. In this manner,
the player tracking card may be used to resume the game even though
the player tracking card was not previously inserted.
[0062] At a step 420, it is determined whether or not the game has
been suspended for longer than a certain time limit. If the game
has not been suspended for longer than the time limit, the player
may choose to resume the game at a step 424. If the player does not
resume the game, game freeze feature may return to step 420 to
again determine whether the time limit for game suspension has been
reached.
[0063] If, at step 420, the time limit for game suspension has been
reached then the suspended game may be forfeited at a step 440 in
one or more embodiments. A game may be forfeited in various ways.
In one embodiment, a game is forfeited by giving or transferring
the player's current wager to the gaming establishment and ending
the game. In this embodiment, the player loses the current wager to
the gaming establishment. In another embodiment, a game is
forfeited by returning the current wager to the player's credits
and ending the game. Any credits in the gaming machine may be
cleared and the gaming machine may be reset for a new player, a new
game, or both. For example, the credits indicator may be set to
zero and the gaming machine may return to step 404 to accept a
wager for a new game.
[0064] It is contemplated that, prior to clearing the credits, any
credits remaining in the machine may be associated with the
authenticating information that the player provided prior to or
after suspending the game, such as described above with regard to
step 416. The credits and associated authenticating information may
be stored on a memory device of the gaming machine or on a gaming
server so that the player may reclaim these credits later on.
[0065] For example, in one or more embodiments, the player may
input his or her authenticating information to reclaim credits from
the gaming machine. The gaming machine may query its memory device
or a gaming server to determine the number of forfeited credits
associated with the authenticating information. The gaming machine
may include a player input device, such as a button labeled
"Reclaim Credits" and a input screen or prompt, to facilitate
reclaiming credits. Once the authenticating information is
provided, the gaming machine may dispense currency, a ticket or
tokens representing the credits the player left in the machine. Of
course, the player may also use the reclaimed credits to play a
game on the gaming machine. It is contemplated that credits may be
reclaimed at other gaming machines as well in some embodiments.
Also, credits may be reclaimed through the gaming establishment
such as by presenting authenticating information to a cashier or
other personnel. It is noted that authenticating information may be
read from a player tracking card (or associated player tracking
account), ticket, receipt, or the like and thus the player may
input or present authenticating information by providing his or her
player tracking card in one or more embodiments.
[0066] If the player does choose to resume the game at step 424,
the game may correspondingly be resumed at a step 428. The game may
be resumed in various ways. In one embodiment, the player may press
or activate a player input device to indicate that he or she wishes
to resume the game. In another embodiment, the player may activate
a resume button 312 such as illustrated in FIG. 6C to indicate that
he or she wishes to resume a game. It is contemplated that a resume
button 312 or other player input device which provides resume
functionality may be disabled, such as shown in FIG. 6A, when play
is not suspended and enabled when play is suspended, such as shown
in FIG. 6C. Similarly, a freeze button 308 may be disabled, such as
in FIG. 6C, when play is suspended, and enabled, such as in FIG.
6A, when play is not suspended and the game freeze feature is
available to a player.
[0067] Once a resume button 312 or similar player input device is
activated, the player may then be prompted to provide
authenticating information to resume the game. For example, a
screen display or graphical user interface such as that of FIG. 6D
may be presented to accept a player's authenticating information. A
player may also insert his or her player tracking card to provide
authenticating information. In one or more embodiments, the
authenticating information must match the authenticating
information used to suspend the game to resume play. This verifies
the identity of the player by ensuring that the same player is
resuming play. Of course, players may provide the authenticating
information to other players. In these cases, at the very least,
requiring matching authenticating information ensures that only
players with the proper authenticating information can resume play.
In the case where authenticating information was provided on a
ticket or receipt, the player may input the authenticating
information thereon or may use a peripheral of a gaming machine to
scan in the authenticating information from the ticket or
receipt.
[0068] Once matching authenticating information has been provided,
the game may continue at a step 432. Preferably, the play will
resume such that the game continues from where the player suspended
the game. In the exemplary poker embodiment of FIG. 6A for example,
if the player suspended the game after the initial hand is dealt,
the game may resume by presenting the initial hand and allowing the
player to continue playing from that point. If the player suspended
the game after holding one or more cards, such as in FIG. 6B, the
game may resume by presenting the initial hand with the player's
hold selections. In the exemplary embodiment, the player continues
the game by holding the two 10 cards and dealing three replacement
cards to achieve the 2 of a kind shown hand in FIG. 6E.
[0069] At a step 436 the game ends. The player may be paid an award
or lose his or her wager based on the outcome the player receives.
If desired, the player may then play a new game by placing a new
wager. It is noted that in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 6E, the
player has achieved a winning poker hand and thus would be paid an
award.
[0070] It is contemplated that the player may be presented with one
or more bonus games or at the end of his or her original game. It
will be understood that a variety of bonus games may be presented
at the end of the original game. In one or more embodiments, the
player may win various awards such as progressive or other jackpots
during a bonus game. A bonus game may be presented at the end of
every game or may be presented only where a player achieves a
particular outcome or outcomes in the original game. As is known, a
bonus game may also be presented in response to a random event or
other event.
[0071] It will be understood that the game freeze feature may be
used to suspend play of a bonus game as well. To illustrate, a
player may press or activate a freeze button to suspend a bonus
game. In response, the gaming machine may prompt the player to
input authenticating information. If applicable, the player may be
required to remove his or her player tracking card to suspend the
bonus game. The bonus game may then be suspended for a period of
time. The player may resume the bonus game by inputting the proper
authenticating information. If the bonus game is not resumed within
the allotted time, the bonus game and its underlying game may be
forfeited. If additional wagers have been collected for the bonus
game, they may be given or transferred to the gaming establishment
or may be credited back to the player's credits. Any credits
remaining in the gaming machine may then be cleared and the gaming
machine reset for a new game. As described above, remaining credits
may be associated with authenticating information to allow the
player to reclaim any credits left in the machine using his or her
authenticating information.
[0072] As indicated above, the game freeze feature may also suspend
play in between one or more games including bonus games. FIG. 5 is
a flow chart illustrating operation of the game freeze feature
according to one embodiment. At a step 504, a wager is accepted at
a gaming machine such as described above. Once a wager has been
accepted, a game may be presented to a player at a step 508. In
general the game will be presented by displaying one or more
symbols, indicia, or the like. In some embodiments, input from a
player may be collected to allow the player to play the game. The
game will then result in an outcome and the player may lose a
portion or all of his or her wager based on such outcome. If the
player achieves a winning outcome, the player may be paid an award.
If the player does not achieve a winning outcome his or her wager
may be collected by the gaming machine. The game may then end at a
step 512 once an outcome has occurred. It is noted that the game
freeze feature may also be used one or more times during a game in
step 508 such as described above with regard to FIG. 4.
[0073] At a step 516, it is determined whether or not the player
has credits remaining in the gaming machine. If the player does not
have any credits remaining, an additional wager must be
placed/accepted at step 504 to play a new game. If the player does
have credits remaining, the player may suspend play of the gaming
machine at a step 520. To illustrate, the screen display of FIG. 6E
may be the player's final hand for a game of poker. As can be seen,
the player still has 12 credits in the gaming machine. Thus, the
player may suspend play by activating the freeze button 308 at the
lower left of the display 104. Of course, other player input
devices such as push buttons may be used instead of or in addition
to the freeze button 308 illustrated. Typically, the player must
have at least one credit in the machine to suspend play between
games. However, in one or more embodiments, such as when a player
has inserted a player tracking card, a player may suspend play
between games without any credits in the machine.
[0074] If the player does not choose to suspend play at step 520, a
new game may start such as by accepting a wager at step 504. It is
noted that this wager may be made from any credits currently in the
gaming machine. If the player suspends play at step 520, such as by
activating a freeze button, play at a gaming machine may be
suspended.
[0075] Similar to above, play at a gaming machine may be suspended
in various ways. In one embodiment, play is suspended by preventing
player input except input related to resuming play. For example,
all player input devices except those for resuming play, such as a
resume button, may be disabled. In addition, a notification, such
as a graphic, textual or other screen display, may be provided
indicating that play has been suspended. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 6C, a notification is presented on a gaming
machine's display 104 that informs players that play has been
suspended. The screen display may also provide the time remaining
for the suspension of play. Other players waiting for the machine
will then know how long they must wait, assuming the original
player does not resume play. Also, the player suspending play will
know how long of a break he or she can take before play must be
resumed. As with the above, a resume button 312 may be provided as
well to allow play to be resumed when desired by the player.
[0076] Authenticating information may be required to suspend play
such as described above. For example, a screen display such as
shown in FIG. 6D may be presented to allow authentication
information to be inputted by a player. In one or more embodiments,
the authenticating information prevents other players or people
from resuming play. If a player tracking card was previously
inserted, the gaming machine may require a player to remove the
player tracking card as part of suspending play. In this manner,
the player is less likely to leave his or her player tracking card
behind should the player leave while play is suspended. This also
allows the player to resume play later by inserting his or her
player tracking card.
[0077] As stated, suspension of play may be limited to a period of
time. The period of time may be set as desired, such as described
above. At a step 528, it is determined if play has been suspended
for longer than such a time limit. If play has been suspended for
longer than the time limit, the player's credits may be forfeited
at a step 540.
[0078] Credits may be forfeited in various ways. In one embodiment,
the player's credits may be cleared from the gaming machine such as
by setting the player's credits to zero. The player's credits may
also be forfeited by giving or transferring any credits remaining
in a gaming machine to a gaming establishment. Once the credits
have been forfeited, the gaming machine may be reset for a new
game. For example, a gaming machine may continue to step 504 where
a wager may be accepted to start a new game.
[0079] In one or more embodiments, credits may be associated with a
player's authenticating information prior to being forfeited. For
example, authenticating information may be stored on a memory
device of the gaming machine along with the number or value of
credits remaining in the gaming machine. Alternatively, or in
addition, authenticating information may be stored on a gaming
server along with the number or value of remaining credits. As
stated above, this allows players to reclaim forfeited credits.
[0080] It is contemplated that a player may reclaim forfeited
credits by providing the authenticating information used to suspend
play of a gaming machine. For example, the player may input
authenticating information into the same gaming machine to reclaim
his or her forfeited credits. The reclaimed credits may then be
cashed out or used to make wagers for one or more games at the
gaming machine. In one embodiment, the player may present
authenticating information to gaming establishment personnel, such
as a cashier, to reclaim his or her forfeited credits. It is
contemplated that forfeited credits may be reclaimed by inputting
authenticating information into any suitably configured gaming
machine, not just the gaming machine on which the credits were
forfeited.
[0081] If the suspension of play is within the time limit, it may
be determined whether or not a player desires to resume play at a
step 532. If the player does not wish to resume play, the method
may return to step 528 where it is again determined if the
suspension of play is within the time limit. If the player does
wish to resume play, the player may indicate so by activating a
resume button or other similarly configured player input device.
For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, a player may engage a resume
button 312 to indicate his or her desire to resume play.
[0082] Then, at a step 536, play may resume. In one or more
embodiments, the player may be required to input his or her
authenticating information to resume play. Typically, the
authenticating information must be the same as that used to suspend
play. In this manner, other players or people may not resume
another player's suspended play. If the proper authenticating
information or player tracking card is provided, the method may
continue at step 504 where an additional wager may be accepted for
a new game. The additional wager may come from one or more credits
remaining in the gaming machine. A screen display such as shown in
FIG. 6D may be provided to allow a player to input authenticating
information to resume play.
[0083] FIGS. 4-5 illustrate the game freeze feature suspending and
resuming play during one or more games and in between one or more
games. Though described as occurring after a particular step or
steps, it will be understood that the game freeze feature may be
implemented and used at other times during and between games. For
example, a game or game play may be suspended after a wager has
been accepted but prior to the start of a game. In addition, it
will be understood that aspects of the game freeze feature for
suspension of play during games may be used during suspension of
play between games, and vice versa.
[0084] In embodiments utilizing a player tracking card, it is
contemplated that play may be suspended prior to the acceptance of
any wager or where the player has no credits in a gaming machine.
For example, a player may be given the option to suspend play as
soon as a player inserts his or her player tracking card regardless
of whether the player has made a wager or if there are any credits
in the gaming machine. This allows players to reserve a machine for
a limited period of time, without requiring the player to make a
wager. It is contemplated that the period of time for suspension
may be smaller if no wager has been placed. Wagerless or creditless
suspension of play with player tracking cards may be used as a
feature to promote the use of player tracking cards if desired.
[0085] It is contemplated that the game freeze feature may be
implemented in a game freeze device. Such a device may be used to
retrofit existing gaming machines or installed in new gaming
machines. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of game freeze device 700. The game freeze device 700
shown comprises a controller 704, and two player input devices, one
configured as a freeze button 308 and the other configured as a
resume button 312. It is noted that, as described above, the
functionality of a freeze button 308 and a resume button 312 may be
combined into a single button in some embodiments.
[0086] The controller 704 may be configured to provide the game
freeze feature to existing gaming machines 100 without extensive
modification to existing machines. As can be seen, the controller
704 may be connected to one or more components of a gaming machine
100. For example, the controller 704 of FIG. 7 is connected to the
gaming machine's processor 204, display 104, and one or more player
input devices 108.
[0087] The controller 704 may be a microprocessor or other
electronic circuit configured to provide the game freeze feature.
In one embodiment, the controller 704 allows the gaming machine's
processor 204 to communicate with one or more of the gaming
machine's other components through the controller. For example, the
controller 704 may forward signals or other communication between
the processor 204 and any other components of a gaming machine 100
which are connected to the controller. In this manner, the
processor 204 may communicate with these components as it normally
does in existing gaming machines 100. As can be seen from the
exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7, the controller 704 may forward
signals between the processor 204, player input devices 108, and
display 104.
[0088] To provide the game freeze feature to an existing gaming
machine, the controller 704 may also be configured to interrupt
communication between the processor 204 and components of the
gaming machine 100 as well as communicate directly with the
components of a gaming machine. For example, the controller 704 may
interrupt communication between the user inputs and the processor
204 when a player activates the freeze button 308. In this manner,
play of a game may be suspended by not permitting further player
input. The controller 704 may also interrupt communication between
the processor 204 and the display 104. For example, the controller
704 may block signals from the processor to display a game on the
display 104. These signals may be replaced or overlaid with a
notification that play has been suspended, such as illustrated in
FIG. 6C. When, the resume button 312 is activated, the controller
may cease interrupting communications and forward information
between the processor 204 and other components to allow the player
to continue play. It is noted that authenticating information may
be collected by the controller 704, when suspending or resuming
play, through the player input devices 108 or display 104 if the
display is touch enabled.
[0089] It is noted that the freeze button 308, resume button 312,
or both may be provided as an overlay graphic of a button on the
display 104 of a gaming machine. In this manner, the freeze button
308, resume button 312, or both may be displayed along with the
game being presented by the gaming machine's processor 204.
Alternatively, or in addition, these buttons may be push buttons or
other player input devices 108 on the gaming machine 100.
[0090] In one embodiment, the connection between the processor 204,
the controller 704, and the display 104 comprises a video cable,
such as a VGA, HDMI, Component Video, Composite Video, Coaxial, or
other cable, which allows video output from the processor to pass
through the controller on its way to the display. In this manner,
when play is suspended, the controller 704 may intercept and
replace or overlay game freeze screen displays, such as described
herein, on a gaming machine's display 104. The connection between
the controller 704 and other components of a gaming machine may be
standardized or existing cables or connectors as well. This allows
the game freeze device 700 to be easily connected to an existing
gaming machine.
[0091] It is contemplated that other components, such as one or
more peripherals 208, of a gaming machine 100 may be connected to a
processor 204 through the controller 704 as well. For example, a
card reader or ticket/receipt printer or dispenser may be connected
through the controller 704. In this manner, the controller 704 may
provide or read authenticating information with these peripherals
208.
[0092] It is noted that the controller 704 may include or be
connected to its own memory device to store game freeze and other
information as well as machine readable code for the game freeze
feature in one or more embodiments. The controller 704 may also be
hard wired to provide a game freeze feature in some embodiments. In
addition, the controller 704 may include or be connected to a
transceiver to receive and transmit information for the game freeze
feature. For example, the transceiver may be used to communicate
amounts wagered, credits remaining, authentication information, and
the like between the game freeze device 700 and a gaming machine
100 or a gaming server.
[0093] The invention has numerous advantages and benefits. As
indicated, the prior art discloses "saving" games so that they can
be played at a later time. For example, if a player is in the
middle of a game or sequence of games, a player might save the game
so that they can go home and then restart the game at a later time,
such as in several days' time. Once the player leaves the gaming
machine, however, another player may utilize that machine to play
other games. Moreover, even if the player were to return to the
same gaming machine and it were available for play, the gaming
machine must "reload" the game and all game state information in
order to restart the game.
[0094] Saving a game involves storing the current state of a game
or the game itself on a storage medium so that the game may later
be retrieved and reloaded. This requires game information such as
the cards or other indicia displayed and/or dealt, the amount of
wagers, stage or round of a game, or other information to be stored
on a storage medium. The game information must then be retrieved
from the storage medium to reload the saved game. In addition, once
retrieved, the game information must then be used to set the state
of a game such that it is identical to the saved game. For example,
the game information indicating the cards displayed in the saved
game is used to display the same cards when the saved game is
loaded.
[0095] In save game implementations, a gaming machine is cleared or
reset to allow other games to be played after the current game has
been saved. Thus, the gaming machine continues to accept player
input related to playing one or more games. The saved game may then
be retrieved and reloaded from a storage medium after one or more
other games have been played. It can be seen that a step of storing
the game or game state on a storage medium is required to implement
the saving/reloading of a game.
[0096] In contrast, the present invention is directed to a gaming
machine or game "freeze". In accordance with this feature, a player
can freeze or stop game play for a limited period of time and then
continue play of that same gaming machine and game. In one or more
embodiments, freezing game play does not require the step of saving
games or game information to a storage medium. For example, when
frozen, the current state of a game may simply be preserved in a
gaming machine, such as in the gaming machine's memory. In one
embodiment, this may occur by preventing further player input to a
gaming machine (except to unfreeze or resume a game) thus
preventing alterations to the game or the game's state.
[0097] When a frozen game is resumed, the game does not have to be
reloaded from a storage medium. In one or more embodiments, this is
because the game is already present/preserved in the gaming
machine's memory. The play of the game is simply allowed to
continue, such as by once again permitting player input related to
playing the game. In one embodiment, the game simply remains in its
current state in a gaming machine's memory when the game freeze
feature is activated. Player or other input related to the play of
the game may be ignored or not allowed until the game is resumed.
In this way the game is preserved in the gaming machine's memory
while the game is frozen.
[0098] This is distinct from saving a game in that the specific
action to store game information on a storage medium is not
required or necessary. In fact, as discussed herein, the game
freeze may be implemented in some embodiments simply by preventing
player input related to the play of a game. When the game is
resumed, player input related to the play of the game may be
accepted or allowed once again.
[0099] It is noted that the freeze feature may be activated at any
time during a game including during the spinning of reels or
dealing of cards. In some embodiments, the game freeze feature
prevents machine readable code, software, or the like of a game
from continuing to execute thus preserving the game in the gaming
machine's memory. The game may then be resumed by continuing
execution of the game from the point it was frozen. It can be seen
that this too does not require a separate step of storing the game
or game information on a storage medium as would be required in a
save game implementation.
[0100] In one embodiment, when the game or gaming machine is
frozen, an indication may be provided to that effect. This
notification alerts potential players that the gaming machine is
not available for use. This is another distinction from saving a
game in that the gaming machine may not be available for use while
a game is frozen in some embodiments.
[0101] In a preferred embodiment, during the time the game or
gaming machine is frozen, the gaming machine does not accept input
other than to resume the game. This prevents, for example, another
player from attempting to play another game while the first game is
frozen. For example, the various buttons such as "bet credits" and
the like may be frozen to prevent input.
[0102] Most importantly, in accordance with the invention, the game
is "frozen", rather than being saved and then cleared from the
gaming machine to permit the gaming machine to be further used or
played. As indicated, a particular advantage to the "freeze"
feature is that the gaming machine is frozen from further use.
Also, as discussed herein, a frozen game may simply be placed in an
`idle` mode (for example, the controller may just lock further
activity relative to the game, even though the game program is
still active and game information is still stored in the local
memory) so that when a player resume the game it immediately
resumes play, rather than having to reload and entire game from a
storage medium or the like, as in the case where a game is saved
and cleared from the gaming machine.
[0103] As indicated, various safeguards may be utilized to allow a
player to freeze a game/gaming machine and to resume a game. In
order to prevent a user from locking up multiple gaming machines or
freezing games or gaming machines for excessively long periods, the
game freeze may have a time limit. In addition, the player may be
required to obtain authorization. For example, a player's tracking
card may be used to verify that the player is only playing one game
or gaming machine and is only seeking to freeze that one game.
Alternatively, an operator might physically assist in the game or
gaming machine freeze. For example, in a tavern the player might
request that the bar keeper enter a freeze authorization code, turn
a "freeze" input key or the like which permits the player to freeze
the game or gaming machine.
[0104] As indicated, authorization may also be required to resume a
game. This may include input of a code, card or the like by the
player to authenticate that the player seeking to resume the game
is the one that froze the game. The step of resuming a game may
again include input from the operator or the like.
[0105] While various embodiments of the invention have been
described, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible
that are within the scope of this invention. In addition, the
various features, elements, and embodiments described herein may be
claimed or combined in any combination or arrangement.
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