U.S. patent application number 12/779565 was filed with the patent office on 2010-12-02 for gaming system, a method of gaming and an award controller.
Invention is credited to Peter Thomas Kup-Ferroth.
Application Number | 20100304832 12/779565 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43220848 |
Filed Date | 2010-12-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100304832 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kup-Ferroth; Peter Thomas |
December 2, 2010 |
GAMING SYSTEM, A METHOD OF GAMING AND AN AWARD CONTROLLER
Abstract
A method of gaming comprising: keeping a score of at least one
award for each participating gaming device of a plurality of gaming
devices; updating the respective scores based on play of the
respective gaming devices; keeping an aggregate score of each at
least one award; updating the aggregate score in response to score
aggregation events associated with the respective gaming devices,
each update based at least on a current score of the individual
gaming device with which the respective aggregation event is
associated; determining, in response to each aggregation event,
whether to make a prize award based on a current aggregate score
and a prize award score to the player of the gaming device with
which the aggregation event is associated.
Inventors: |
Kup-Ferroth; Peter Thomas;
(Lane Cove, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCANDREWS HELD & MALLOY, LTD
500 WEST MADISON STREET, SUITE 3400
CHICAGO
IL
60661
US
|
Family ID: |
43220848 |
Appl. No.: |
12/779565 |
Filed: |
May 13, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 ;
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3258 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 ;
463/25 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 14, 2009 |
AU |
2009902168 |
Claims
1. A method of gaming comprising: keeping a score of at least one
award for each participating gaming device of a plurality of gaming
devices; updating the respective scores based on play of the
respective gaming devices; keeping an aggregate score of each at
least one award; updating the aggregate score in response to score
aggregation events associated with the respective gaming devices,
each update based at least on a current score of the individual
gaming device with which the respective aggregation event is
associated; determining, in response to each aggregation event,
whether to make a prize award based on a current aggregate score
and a prize award score to the player of the gaming device with
which the aggregation event is associated.
2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein each award comprises a
symbol, and the score for each gaming device comprises a current
total of awarded symbols for the respective gaming device.
3. A method as claimed in claim 2, comprising keeping separate
scores for a plurality of different symbols for each gaming
device.
4. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein updating each respective
score comprises resetting the respective score to an initial value
upon the aggregate score being updated.
5. A method as claimed in claim 1, comprising determining during
each play of each gaming device, whether to make the at least one
award for which the score is kept.
6. A method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the determination
comprises conducting at least one random trial for the award.
7. A method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the determination
comprises evaluating a game outcome generated during play of the
gaming device to determine whether it corresponds to the at least
one award.
8. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein each award is of points,
and the score comprises a total of awarded points.
9. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein each score aggregation
event comprises an occurrence of an aggregation symbol during play
of the respective gaming devices.
10. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the score aggregation
event comprises carrying out a play of a game with an individual
gaming device.
11. A method as claimed in claim 1, comprising keeping the
aggregate score at an award controller in data communication with
each of the gaming devices.
12. A method as claimed in claim 11, comprising determining whether
to make the prize award at the award controller.
13. A method as claimed in claim 1, comprising keeping scores for
respective gaming devices at the respective gaming devices.
14. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein determining whether to
make an award includes determining whether the current aggregate
score is or exceeds a prize award score.
15. A method as claimed in claim 14, wherein there are a plurality
of prize awards associated with respective ones of the awards, and
wherein only one of the awards may be made in response to an
aggregation event such that if an aggregation event results in two
or more aggregate scores reaching or exceeding a prize award score,
only one of the prize awards is made, whereby the next aggregation
event may result in the award of another prize award without the
aggregate score associated with that prize award increasing.
16. A gaming system comprising: a plurality of gaming devices, each
individual gaming device arranged to keep a score of at least one
award and update the score based on play of the gaming device; and
an award controller in data communication with the gaming devices,
arranged to: keep an aggregate score of each at least one award;
update the aggregate score in response to score aggregation events
associated with the respective gaming devices, each update based on
a current score of the individual gaming device with which the
respective aggregation event is associated, and determine, in
response to each aggregation event, whether to make a prize award
based on a current aggregate score and a prize award score to the
player of the gaming device with which the aggregation event is
associated.
17. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein each award
comprises a symbol, and the score for each gaming device comprises
a current total of awarded symbols for the respective gaming
device.
18. A gaming system as claimed in claim 17, wherein each gaming
device is arranged to keep separate scores for a plurality of
different symbols and the award controller keeps an aggregated
score for each different symbol.
19. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein each game
device is arranged to update the score, in part by resetting the
respective score to an initial value upon the aggregate score being
updated.
20. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, where each gaming
device is arranged to determine during each play of the respective
gaming device, whether to make the at least one award for which the
score is kept.
21. A gaming system as claimed in claim 20, wherein the
determination comprises conducting at least one random trial for
the award.
22. A gaming system as claimed in claim 20, wherein the
determination comprises evaluating a game outcome generated during
play of the gaming device to determine whether it corresponds to
the at least one award.
23. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein each award is
of points, and the score and aggregate score comprise a total of
points.
24. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein each score
aggregation event comprises an occurrence of an aggregation symbol
during play of the respective gaming devices.
25. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the score
aggregation event comprises carrying out a play of a game with an
individual gaming device.
26. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the award
controller determines whether to make an award by determining
whether the current aggregate score is or exceeds a prize award
score.
27. A gaming system as claimed in claim 26, wherein there are a
plurality of prize awards associated with respective ones of the
awards, and the award controller is arranged to make only one of
the awards in response to a specific aggregation event such that if
an aggregation event results in two or more aggregate scores
reaching or exceeding a prize award score, whereby the next
aggregation event may result in the award of another prize award
without the aggregate score associated with that prize award
increasing.
28. A gaming system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the award
controller is a jackpot controller.
29. An award controller for a gaming system, the award controller
arranged to: keep an aggregate score of at least one award; update
the aggregate score in response to score aggregation events
associated with respective ones of a plurality gaming devices, each
update based on a current score of awards made at the individual
gaming device with which the respective aggregation event is
associated; and determine, in response to each aggregation event,
whether to make a prize award to the player of the gaming device
with which the aggregation event is associated, based on a current
aggregate score and a prize award score.
30. An award controller as claimed in claim 29, wherein each award
comprises a symbol, and the aggregate score for comprises a current
total of aggregated symbols.
31. An award controller as claimed in claim 30, arranged to keep
separate aggregate scores for each of a plurality of different
symbols.
32. An award controller as claimed in claim 29, wherein each award
is of points, and the aggregate score comprises a total of
points.
33. An award controller as claimed in claim 29, arranged to
determine whether to make an award by determining whether the
current aggregate score is or exceeds a prize award score.
34. An award controller as claimed in claim 33, wherein there are a
plurality of prize awards associated with respective ones of the
awards, and the award controller is arranged to make only one of
the awards in response to a specific aggregation event such that if
an aggregation event results in two or more aggregate scores
reaching or exceeding a prize award score, whereby the next
aggregation event may result in the award of another prize award
without the aggregate score associated with that prize award
increasing.
35. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising executing
computer program code.
36. A method as claimed in claim 35, further comprising storing
said computer program code in a tangible computer readable
medium.
37. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising transmitting
said computer program code.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to Australian Application
No. 2009902168, having a filing date of May 14, 2009, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
MICROFICHE/COPYRIGHT REFERENCE
[0003] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates to a gaming system, a method
of gaming and an award controller.
[0005] In some gaming systems, a jackpot controller is used to make
an additional award to a player of an individual gaming machine.
Depending on the implementation the decision to make the jackpot
award can be made at the gaming machine or at the jackpot
controller. In one type of jackpot controller known as a mystery
jackpot controller, each gaming machine makes a contribution of
part of the amount wagered to a jackpot pool each time it is played
and a jackpot award is made to the gaming machine which causes the
jackpot value to reach a designated, hidden value.
[0006] While such gaming systems provide players with enjoyment, a
need exists for alternative gaming systems in order to maintain or
increase player enjoyment.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In a first aspect, the invention provides a method of gaming
comprising:
[0008] keeping a score of at least one award for each participating
gaming device of a plurality of gaming devices;
[0009] updating the respective scores based on play of the
respective gaming devices;
[0010] keeping an aggregate score of each at least one award;
[0011] updating the aggregate score in response to score
aggregation events associated with the respective gaming devices,
each update based at least on a current score of the individual
gaming device with which the respective aggregation event is
associated;
[0012] determining, in response to each aggregation event, whether
to make a prize award based on a current aggregate score and a
prize award score to the player of the gaming device with which the
aggregation event is associated.
[0013] In an embodiment, each award comprises a symbol, and the
score for each gaming device comprises a current total of awarded
symbols for the respective gaming device.
[0014] In an embodiment, the method comprises keeping separate
scores for a plurality of different symbols for each gaming
device.
[0015] In an embodiment, the method comprises updating each
respective score comprises resetting the respective score to an
initial value upon the aggregate score being updated.
[0016] In an embodiment, the method comprises determining during
each play of each gaming device, whether to make the at least one
award for which the score is kept.
[0017] In an embodiment, the determination comprises conducting at
least one random trial for the award.
[0018] In an embodiment, the determination comprises evaluating a
game outcome generated during play of the gaming device to
determine whether it corresponds to the at least one award.
[0019] In an embodiment, each award is of points, and the score
comprises a total of awarded points.
[0020] In an embodiment, each score aggregation event comprises an
occurrence of an aggregation symbol during play of the respective
gaming devices.
[0021] In an embodiment, the score aggregation event comprises
carrying out a play of a game with an individual gaming device.
[0022] In an embodiment, the method comprises keeping the aggregate
score at an award controller in data communication with each of the
gaming devices.
[0023] In an embodiment, the method comprises determining whether
to make the prize award at the award controller.
[0024] In an embodiment, the method comprises keeping scores for
respective gaming devices at the respective gaming devices.
[0025] In an embodiment, determining whether to make an award
includes determining whether the current aggregate score is or
exceeds a prize award score.
[0026] In an embodiment, there are a plurality of prize awards
associated with respective ones of the awards, and wherein only one
of the awards may be made in response to an aggregation event such
that if an aggregation event results in two or more aggregate
scores reaching or exceeding a prize award score, only one of the
prize awards is made, whereby the next aggregation event may result
in the award of another prize award without the aggregate score
associated with that prize award increasing.
[0027] In a second aspect, the invention provides a gaming system
comprising:
[0028] a plurality of gaming devices, each individual gaming device
arranged to keep a score of at least one award and update the score
based on play of the gaming device; and
[0029] an award controller in data communication with the gaming
devices, arranged to: [0030] keep an aggregate score of each at
least one award; [0031] update the aggregate score in response to
score aggregation events associated with the respective gaming
devices, each update based on a current score of the individual
gaming device with which the respective aggregation event is
associated, and [0032] determine, in response to each aggregation
event, whether to make a prize award based on a current aggregate
score and a prize award score to the player of the gaming device
with which the aggregation event is associated.
[0033] In an embodiment, each award comprises a symbol, and the
score for each gaming device comprises a current total of awarded
symbols for the respective gaming device.
[0034] In an embodiment, each gaming device is arranged to keep
separate scores for a plurality of different symbols and the award
controller keeps an aggregated score for each different symbol.
[0035] In an embodiment, each game device is arranged to update the
score, in part by resetting the respective score to an initial
value upon the aggregate score being updated.
[0036] In an embodiment, each gaming device is arranged to
determine during each play of the respective gaming device, whether
to make the at least one award for which the score is kept.
[0037] In an embodiment, the determination comprises conducting at
least one random trial for the award.
[0038] In an embodiment, the determination comprises evaluating a
game outcome generated during play of the gaming device to
determine whether it corresponds to the at least one award.
[0039] In an embodiment, each award is of points, and the score and
aggregate score comprise a total of points.
[0040] In an embodiment, each score aggregation event comprises an
occurrence of an aggregation symbol during play of the respective
gaming devices.
[0041] In an embodiment, the score aggregation event comprises
carrying out a play of a game with an individual gaming device.
[0042] In an embodiment, the award controller determines whether to
make an award by determining whether the current aggregate score is
or exceeds a prize award score.
[0043] In an embodiment, there are a plurality of prize awards
associated with respective ones of the awards, and the award
controller is arranged to make only one of the awards in response
to a specific aggregation event such that if an aggregation event
results in two or more aggregate scores reaching or exceeding a
prize award score, whereby the next aggregation event may result in
the award of another prize award without the aggregate score
associated with that prize award increasing.
[0044] In an embodiment, the award controller is a jackpot
controller.
[0045] In a third aspect, the invention provides an award
controller for a gaming system, the award controller arranged
to:
[0046] keep an aggregate score of at least one award;
[0047] update the aggregate score in response to score aggregation
events associated with respective ones of a plurality gaming
devices, each update based on a current score of awards made at the
individual gaming device with which the respective aggregation
event is associated; and
[0048] determine, in response to each aggregation event, whether to
make a prize award to the player of the gaming device with which
the aggregation event is associated, based on a current aggregate
score and a prize award score.
[0049] In an embodiment, each award comprises a symbol, and the
aggregate score for comprises a current total of aggregated
symbols.
[0050] In an embodiment, the award controller is arranged to keep
separate aggregate scores for each of a plurality of different
symbols.
[0051] In an embodiment, each award is of points, and the aggregate
score comprises a total of points.
[0052] In an embodiment, the award controller is arranged to
determine whether to make an award by determining whether the
current aggregate score is or exceeds a prize award score.
[0053] In an embodiment, there are a plurality of prize awards
associated with respective ones of the awards, and the award
controller is arranged to make only one of the awards in response
to a specific aggregation event such that if an aggregation event
results in two or more aggregate scores reaching or exceeding a
prize award score, whereby the next aggregation event may result in
the award of another prize award without the aggregate score
associated with that prize award increasing.
[0054] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides computer program
code which when executed implements the above method.
[0055] In a fifth aspect, the invention provides a tangible
computer readable medium comprising the above program code.
[0056] In a sixth aspect, the invention extends to transmitting the
above program code.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0057] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way
of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0058] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a gaming system with an award
controller;
[0059] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a stand alone gaming
machine;
[0060] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the functional components of a
gaming machine;
[0061] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the functional components
of a memory;
[0062] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a network gaming
system;
[0063] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an award controller;
[0064] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of a award
controller;
[0065] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of an embodiment; and
[0066] FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of a gaming device in
the form of a standalone gaming machine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0067] Overview of gaming system of one embodiment
[0068] FIG. 1 shows a gaming system 1 of one embodiment where a
award controller 150 is in data communication over a network 2,
such as an Ethernet, with a bank of five gaming devices in the form
of standalone gaming machines 10. Each of the gaming machines 10 is
arranged to make an award, such as at least one designated symbol
during normal game play. A local score of awards, such as a total
of awarded symbols, is kept at the gaming machines. When an
aggregation event, occurs, such as a special symbol occurring at
the gaming machine 10, the local score of a gaming machine is sent
to the award controller 150 which keeps an aggregate score such as
an aggregate count of the designated symbol. In one embodiment, the
award controller 150 keeps aggregate scores for a plurality of
different symbols. In an embodiment, the award controller 10 makes
an award when the local score sent to the controller causes the
aggregate score to reach or exceed a prize award score.
[0069] Gaming Devices
[0070] Gaming devices capable of participating in the method of
gaming of the embodiment can take any suitable form including stand
alone gaming machines and server based gaming terminals.
[0071] A gaming device in the form of a stand alone gaming machine
10 is illustrated in FIG. 2. The gaming machine 10 includes a
console 12 having a display 14 on which are displayed
representations of a game 16 that can be played by a player. A
mid-trim 20 of the gaming machine 10 houses a bank of buttons 22
for enabling a player to interact with the gaming machine, in
particular during game play. The mid-trim 20 also houses a credit
input mechanism 24 which in this example includes a coin input
chute 24A and a bill collector 24B. Other credit input mechanisms
may also be employed, for example, a card reader for reading a
smart card, debit card or credit card. Other gaming machines may
configure for ticket in such that they have a ticket reader for
reading tickets having a value and crediting the player based on
the face value of the ticker. A player marketing module (not shown)
having a reading device may also be provided for the purpose of
reading a player tracking device, for example as part of a loyalty
program. The player tracking device may be in the form of a card,
flash drive or any other portable storage medium capable of being
read by the reading device. In some embodiments, the player
marketing module may provide an additional credit mechanism, either
by transferring credits to the gaming machine from credits stored
on the player tracking device or by transferring credits from a
player account in data communication with the player marketing
module.
[0072] A top box 26 may carry artwork 28, including for example pay
tables and details of bonus awards and other information or images
relating to the game. Further artwork and/or information may be
provided on a front panel 29 of the console 12. A coin tray 30 is
mounted beneath the front panel 29 for dispensing cash payouts from
the gaming machine 10.
[0073] The display 14 shown in FIG. 2 is in the form of a video
display unit, particularly a cathode ray tube screen device.
Alternatively, the display 14 may be a liquid crystal display,
plasma screen, any other suitable video display unit, or the
visible portion of an electromechanical device. The top box 26 may
also include a display, for example a video display unit, which may
be of the same type as the display 14, or of a different type.
[0074] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of operative components of a
typical gaming machine which may be the same as or different to the
gaming machine of FIG. 2.
[0075] The gaming machine 100 includes a game controller 101 having
a processor 102 mounted on a circuit board. Instructions and data
to control operation of the processor 102 are stored in a memory
103, which is in data communication with the processor 102.
Typically, the gaming machine 100 will include both volatile and
non-volatile memory and more than one of each type of memory, with
such memories being collectively represented by the memory 103.
[0076] The gaming machine has hardware meters 104 for purposes
including ensuring regulatory compliance and monitoring player
credit, an input/output (I/O) interface 105 for communicating with
peripheral devices of the gaming machine 100. The input/output
interface 105 and/or the peripheral devices may be intelligent
devices with their own memory for storing associated instructions
and data for use with the input/output interface or the peripheral
devices. A random number generator module 113 generates random
numbers for use by the processor 102. Persons skilled in the art
will appreciate that the reference to random numbers includes
pseudo-random numbers.
[0077] In the example shown in FIG. 3, a player interface 120
includes peripheral devices that communicate with the game
controller 101 including one or more displays 106, a touch screen
and/or buttons 107 (which provide a game play mechanism), a card
and/or ticket reader 108, a printer 109, a bill acceptor and/or
coin input mechanism 110 and a coin output mechanism 111.
Additional hardware may be included as part of the gaming machine
100, or hardware may be omitted as required for the specific
implementation. For example, while buttons or touch screens are
typically used in gaming machines to allow a player to place a
wager and initiate a play of a game any input device that enables
the player to input game play instructions may be used.
[0078] In addition, the gaming machine 100 may include a
communications interface, for example a network card 112. The
network card may, for example, send status information, accounting
information or other information to a bonus controller, central
controller, server or database and receive data or commands from
the bonus controller, central controller, server or database. In
embodiments employing a player marketing module, communications
over a network may be via player marketing module--i.e. the player
marketing module may be in data communication with one or more of
the above devices and communicate with it on behalf of the gaming
machine.
[0079] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the main components of an
exemplary memory 103. The memory 103 includes RAM 103A, EPROM 103B
and a mass storage device 103C. The RAM 103A typically temporarily
holds program files for execution by the processor 102 and related
data. The EPROM 103B may be a boot ROM device and/or may contain
some system or game related code. The mass storage device 103C is
typically used to store game programs, the integrity of which may
be verified and/or authenticated by the processor 102 using
protected code from the EPROM 103B or elsewhere.
[0080] It is also possible for the operative components of the
gaming machine 100 to be distributed, for example input/output
devices 106,107,108,109,110,111 to be provided remotely from the
game controller 101.
[0081] In a client server architecture a gaming device is provided
by a gaming client and game server (and optionally other gaming
network components). A gaming client has a similar outward
appearance to gaming machine 10 but the game server implements most
or all of the game and as such acts as the game controller while
the terminal operated by the player essentially provides only the
player interface. The gaming terminal receives player instructions,
pass these to the game server which will process them and return
game play outcomes to the gaming machine for display. Further
details of a client/server architecture can be found in Further
details of a server gaming architecture can be found in WO
2006/052213 and PCT/SE2006/000559, the disclosures of which are
incorporated herein by reference. In such an embodiment, a award
controller can be provided, for example, by a dedicated server in
data communication with the game server.
[0082] FIG. 5 shows that a gaming device may be connected within a
gaming network 200 which provides additional and/or enhanced
functionality. The gaming network 200 includes a network 201, which
for example may be an Ethernet network. Gaming machines 202, shown
arranged in three banks 203 of two gaming machines 202 in FIG. 5,
are connected to the network 201. The gaming machines 202 provide a
player operable interface and may be the same as the gaming
machines 10,100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. While banks 203 of two
gaming machines are illustrated in FIG. 5, banks of one, three or
more gaming machines are also envisaged.
[0083] One or more displays 204 may also be connected to the
network 201. For example, the displays 204 may be associated with
one or more banks 203 of gaming machines. The displays 204 may be
used to display representations associated with game play on the
gaming machines 202, and/or used to display other representations,
for example promotional or informational material.
[0084] An award controller can be provided within such a network
200 by linked game server 205, such that the linked game server may
implement a linked game for a plurality of different banks of
gaming machines rather than a specific controller being provide for
each bank of gaming machines.
[0085] A database management server 206 may manage storage of game
programs and associated data for downloading or access by the
gaming devices 202 in a database 206A. Typically, if the gaming
system enables players to participate in a Jackpot game, a Jackpot
server 207 will be provided to perform accounting functions for the
Jackpot game. A loyalty program server 212 may also be
provided.
[0086] Servers are also typically provided to assist in the
administration of the gaming network 200, including for example a
gaming floor management server 208, and a licensing server 209 to
monitor the use of licenses relating to particular games. An
administrator terminal 210 is provided to allow an administrator to
run the network 201 and the devices connected to the network.
[0087] The gaming network 200 may communicate with other gaming
systems, other local networks, for example a corporate network,
and/or a wide area network such as the Internet, for example
through a firewall 211.
[0088] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that in
accordance with known techniques, functionality at the server side
of the network may be distributed over a plurality of different
computers. For example, elements may be run as a single "engine" on
one server or a separate server may be provided. For example, the
game server 205 could run a random generator engine. Alternatively,
a separate random number generator server could be provided.
Further, persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a
plurality of game servers could be provided to run different games
or a single game server may run a plurality of different games as
required by the terminals.
[0089] FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of a gaming device in
the form of a stand alone gaming machine. The gaming device 900 may
be the same or different to gaming machine 10,100 described above.
In FIG. 9, the processor 930 of game controller 920 is shown
implementing a number of modules based on program code and data
stored in memory 940. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate
that various of the modules could be implemented in some other way,
for example by a dedicated circuit.
[0090] The gaming device 900 includes a player interface 910 having
a display 911 for displaying game outcomes to a player and a game
play mechanism 912 including input devices such as touch screen or
buttons to enable the player to interact with the game by placing
wagers and entering any other instructions required to play the
game. Game play mechanism 912 also enables the player to interact
with the game to learn game rules etc. The player interface 910
includes a credit mechanism 913 allowing the player to input credit
into the gaming device 900 and/or be paid out any winnings or
remaining credit. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that
other components will be present in a gaming device 900 such as
those described in relation to FIGS. 2 to 4 above. The memory 940
includes program code for implementing a game including base game
rule data 941 for implementing the rules of a base game.
[0091] The processor 930 when executing the program code stored in
memory 940 is arranged to generate outcomes of the game in response
to the operation of the game play mechanism 912. The outcomes are
generated with the outcome generator 931.
[0092] The embodiment is described in relation to the evaluation of
games where symbols are selected for display in a manner equivalent
to a conventional spinning reel type game. In such embodiments, the
evaluation entitlement may be based on how many lines are played in
each game. Such win lines are typically formed by a combination of
symbol display positions, one from each reel, the symbol display
positions being located relative to one another such that they form
a line.
[0093] In many games, the win entitlement is not strictly limited
to the selected win lines for example, "scatter" pays are awarded
independently of a players selection of pay lines and are an
inherent part of the evaluation entitlement.
[0094] Persons skilled in the art, will appreciate that in other
embodiments, an evaluation entitlement may be based on a number of
reels to play such as in games are marketed under the trade name
"Reel Power" by Aristocrat Leisure Industries Pty Ltd. The
selection of the reel means that each displayed symbol of the reel
can be substituted for a symbol at one or more designated display
positions. In other words, all symbols displayed at symbol display
positions corresponding to a selected reel can be used to form
symbol combinations with symbols displayed at a designated, symbol
display positions of the other reels. For example, if there are
five reels and three symbol display positions for each reel such
that the symbol display positions comprise three rows of five
symbol display positions, the symbols displayed in the centre row
are used for non-selected reels. As a result, the total number of
ways to win is determined by multiplying the number of active
display positions of each reel, the active display positions being
all display positions of each selected reel and the designated
display position of the non-selected reels. As a result for five
reels and fifteen display positions there are 243 ways to win.
[0095] Accordingly, the game controller 60 establishes the
evaluation entitlement to be applied based on the wager made by the
player using the game play mechanism. The outcome generator 931
generates a game outcome to be evaluated which is displayed on
display 911. In this example, by selecting symbols with a symbol
selector 931A. One example of selecting symbols is for the symbol
selector 931A to select symbols for display from a plurality of
symbol sets corresponding to respective ones of a plurality of
spinning reels. The symbol sets 943 can specify a sequence of
symbols for each reel such that the symbol selector 931A can select
all of the symbols by selecting a stopping position in the sequence
using random number generator 934. In one example, three symbols of
each of five reels may be displayed such that symbols are displayed
at fifteen display positions on display 911 under control of
display controller 936. It is known to use a probability table
stored in memory 940 to vary the odds of a particular stop position
being selected. Other techniques can be used to control the odds of
particular outcomes occurring to thereby control the return to
player of the game.
[0096] Accordingly, as described above, at the completion of the
outcome generation process controlled by the outcome generator 9311
a plurality of symbols are displayed at display positions on
display 911.
[0097] The outcome evaluator 932 evaluates the game outcomes that
are generated based on the wager specified with the game play
mechanism 912 and updates credit data 942 which stores a credit
meter and a win meter for the game. The previously determined
evaluation entitlement is applied by the award evaluator 932. It is
determined whether any base game awards should be made based on
game rule data 941--for example whether the symbols of the display
positions of an active win line or in an active way to win
correspond to designated symbol combinations in a pay table. Any
base game awards are then made.
[0098] In addition to the above, awards may be made toward a linked
game. In this embodiment, the awards are symbols and the linked
game may be won by a player who causes an aggregate total of
symbols to reach or exceed a prize award total. More generally,
each gaming machine keeps a local score of awards (in this
embodiment awarded symbols) and the linked game can be won if the
aggregate score reaches a designated prize award score.
[0099] Awards of symbols to be accumulated towards to local score
can be made in a number of different ways. For example, the outcome
generator 931 conduct a random trial having a specified probability
of success to determine whether symbols should be awarded. In the
illustrated embodiment, the local score module 935 monitors
displayed symbols of the game outcome to determine whether it
includes any symbols which are to be accumulated towards the local
score. There may be, for example, a plurality of different symbols
which are accumulated. If symbols are accumulated, the symbol
accumulator 935 updates the current total of accumulated symbols
stored as part of score data 943 in memory 944. In another
embodiment, rather than symbols being accumulated directly from the
displayed outcome, they may be awarded based on game rules
841--e.g. a certain game outcome such as a symbol combination
results in the award of a particular symbol, a time elapses, a
turnover occurs etc.
[0100] In the embodiment, a total of symbols is accumulated by the
local score module 935 until an aggregation event occurs. The game
controller 920 comprises an aggregation event monitor 937 which
monitors for the aggregation event. In the embodiment, the
aggregation event is also derived from the game outcome, for
example, the occurrence of an aggregation symbol. However, persons
skilled in the art will appreciate that other aggregation events
may be employed in other embodiments such as a certain number of
games being played, a certain turnover being achieved, a random
trial being carried out to determine whether to aggregate symbols
or an aggregation signal being received from the award controller.
Persons skilled in the art can derive other accumulation events
from trigger events used to trigger a feature or secondary game.
When the aggregation event occurs, the local score module 937,
advises the communication module 933 which communicates data
representing the local score for each symbol via communication
interface 950 to the award controller 150. The aggregation event
monitor 937 also causes local score module 935 to update the stored
data to reflect that the symbols have been communicated, for
example by resetting the totals stored in memory 940 to zero.
[0101] Award Controller and its Operation within the Gaming
System
[0102] Referring to FIG. 6 there is shown further detail of the
award controller 150. From FIG. 6 it will be apparent that award
controller 150 is in data communication with a communal display 160
on which the aggregate score in the form current symbol totals, and
optionally the designated number of symbols required for a linked
game prize award to be made, can be displayed to the players
playing the bank of gaming machines 10 shown in FIG. 1. In other
embodiments, the totals could be displayed on the respective top
boxes 26 of the individual gaming machines 10, rather than being
displayed on a communal display 160, or in addition to such a
display.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 6, the constitution of the award
controller 150 is similar to that of the gaming device illustrated
in relation to FIGS. 2 to 4 and 9 in that it has a processor 151
arranged to implement award controller based on program code stored
in memory 152 and a display driver 154 for driving the display 160.
The award controller 150 also includes a communication interface
153 which is designed to enable the processor 151 to communicate
with each of the gaming devices 10.
[0104] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate the above
components are the core components for implementing a linked game
but other components may be present in a award controller. Persons
skilled in the art will appreciate that the implementation of the
award controller is analogous to the implementation of bonus and/or
controllers in existing gaming systems and reference may be made to
such bonus controllers for further details of implementation.
Indeed, in one embodiment, the award controller may be a modified
jackpot controller.
[0105] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of the award controller
150 which shows that the processor 151 implements a number of
modules in a similar manner to the processor of the gaming device
shown in FIG. 9 by executing program code stored in memory 152.
Data communications interface 153 receives communications from
individual ones of gaming machines 10 including data identifying
the gaming machine and local score data representing the symbols
that gaming machine has accumulated and is communicating in
response to an aggregation event. In this embodiment, individual
machines communicate local score data to the award controller in
response to individual aggregation events occurring--i.e. the
aggregation events are associated with individual machines 10
because they occur at those machines 10. In other embodiments, a
single event may correspond to aggregation events associated with
each participating gaming machines 10.
[0106] After receiving the local score data, aggregate score module
701 updates score data 711 and updates the display (via display
controller 704) to show the new aggregate score. Award evaluator
702 determines based on game rule data 710 whether the accumulated
score for any of the symbols (there may be one or more symbol
totals) corresponds to a prize award. For example, the totals
corresponding to awards may be preset in memory 152. In another
embodiment, the totals may be set (for example, by being randomly
determined within allowable ranges) when the game is initiated and
after an award has been made. When award evaluator 702 determines
that an award is to be made, the award is advertised on display 160
under control of display controller 704 and the award module 703 is
initiated to make the award to the relevant gaming machine, for
example, by communicating an amount of credits to be added to the
credit meter of the gaming machine. The relevant aggregate symbol
score is also reset.
[0107] The method of the embodiment is summarised in FIG. 8 which
shows that the method 800 involves generating 810 game outcomes at
individual gaming devices, making an awarding 820, such as of one
or more symbols, if the relevant game rules are satisfied. Keeping
830 a score of any awarded symbols at individual gaming devices. It
is determined 840 whether an aggregation event 840 has occurred. If
so, data representing the score of awarded symbols is sent 850 to
the award controller which determines 860 whether a designated
aggregate score has been reached and makes 870 an award if
necessary.
[0108] Further aspects of the method will be apparent from the
above description of the gaming system. Persons skilled in the art
will also appreciate that the method could be embodied in program
code. The program code could be supplied in a number of ways, for
example on a tangible computer readable medium, such as a magnetic
or optical disc or a memory. The program code could also be
transmitted, e.g. from a server computer.
[0109] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that there may be
variation on the above embodiments. For example, in some
embodiments, symbol data may be sent periodically to the award
controller 150, for example after, or near the end of, every game,
such that the aggregation event is the end of the game. As
discussed above, in some embodiments aggregation events may be used
to cause all participating gaming machines 10 to communicate
accumulated symbol data. For example, after receiving accumulated
symbol data from one gaming machine, the award controller may
request accumulated symbol data from each other machine. In another
example, the award controller may initiate the accumulation of
symbol data and request each gaming machine to supply their
accumulated symbol data, for example it may randomly determine that
the data is to be aggregated, thereby creating aggregation events
for each gaming machine. The total(s) for the relevant gaming
machine(s) are reset to an initial value (e.g. zero) once the
symbols have been accumulated into the aggregate total for the
symbol.
[0110] The number and type of symbols to be awarded at each step
can also follow any suitable rule, for example:
[0111] the number is determined by the triggering event (e.g. 3
hats on a pay line accumulates 1 hat), the number is related to the
amount bet at the time of the trigger (e.g. player bets a total of
10 credits and the trigger is 3 hats anywhere in the window, the
accumulated number is 10 hats), and the number is random (e.g. when
there are 3 hats on a pay line, the gaming device uses the RNG to
determine that 5 hats will be accumulated),
[0112] Eligibility for participating in the linked game and
receiving the awards can follow the usual rules for
eligibility--e.g. a player is eligible when they have placed a
qualifying bet, have an outcome on a machine, etc. The awards may
be fixed or accumulate in response to play of the gaming machine.
In one embodiment, the awards are a plurality of jackpot pools and
each jackpot pool has specific symbol(s) associated with it.
[0113] In another embodiment, points are awarded instead of
symbols. Such points may be awarded in multiple categories.
Example 1
[0114] Predefined Symbols to be Accumulated at Controller
[0115] Three gaming machines 10 are connected to an award
controller 150. The machines 10 are identified as machines A, B, C.
All machines contribute 5% of turnover to a prize pool which is
accounted for by the controller. The prize pool is allocated to
three distinct prize levels.
[0116] To win a prize level, a machine needs to send information to
the controller 150 which meets predefined rules to award the
prize.
[0117] If the information sent to the award controller does not
meet the predefined rules, the information sent to the controller
is retained and is used to evaluate the next prize entitlement.
[0118] For each machine a plurality of symbols can be awarded by
the outcome generator 931 conducting random trials using the random
number generator 934:
[0119] a hat symbol is awarded with probability 1 in 100 for every
credit played, a star symbol is awarded with probability 1 in 500
for every credit played, and a smile symbol is awarded with
probability 1 in 1000 for every credit played.
[0120] In this example, the awarding of the symbols is accumulated
on the screen and displayed to the player.
[0121] In addition, for each machine at each spin, there is a 1 in
100 chance that a key symbol will be awarded by the outcome
generator 931--i.e. this probability based on games played not
turnover.
[0122] When the key symbol is awarded and when the game currently
being played has completed, the machine 10 plays an animation and a
tune and sends the information about the accumulated symbols to the
controller 150. This helps build a sense of suspense for a player
that a group of symbols has been aggregated and then the player has
a "shot" at the prize. Hopefully, a player will have a shot at a
prize before another player.
[0123] The controller 150 has an aggregate score in the form of
count of the number of symbols which have already been sent to the
controller. When the number of hats accumulated in the controller
equals 10, the minor jackpot is won, when the number of stars
accumulated in the controller equals 5, the major jackpot is won
and when the number of smiles accumulated in the controller equals
5 the maxi jackpot is won. In this case, the accumulated symbols
are displayed on display 160 so that they can be seen by players on
all the machines 10 connected to the controller 150.
[0124] When a gaming machine sends data to the controller, the
visual display of the score is updated and the controller
determines if the number of displayed symbols has reached the
required number to award a prize. If the target number is reached,
the display of the total stops accumulating and the prize is paid.
Then any remaining symbols are added to the display which will
start the score again. If the target number is not reached, then
the display retains the display of the accumulated symbols.
[0125] Assume the controller has already accumulated 5 hats, 2
stars and 1 smile symbol. Player A at machine A plays the machine
and has accumulated a local score at the machine of 3 hats and 2
stars when the key is won. The machine sends the information to the
controller and the display at the controller increments to 8 hats,
4 stars and 1 smile. No prize is awarded.
[0126] Player B is playing machine B and when the key is won, the
machine V sends 1 hat, 2 stars and 1 smile symbol to the
controller. The controller 150 updates the number of hats to 9, the
number of stars to 5 and the major jackpot is awarded. The score of
stars is then reduced to 0 to show the prize being awarded and then
incremented to 1 because there is a left over star, and the number
of smile symbols is incremented to 2.
Example 2
[0127] Mystery Number of Symbols to be Accumulated at
Controller
[0128] As per the above example, however the number of symbols to
be accumulated to win a prize is not known and not advertised to
the player.
[0129] The controller 150 randomly selects the number and/or
combination of symbols required to win a jackpot with RNG 705 based
on game rules 710. When a machine 10 sends data related to a local
score of symbols to the controller 150, the controller 150 adds
this score to the aggregate score and compares the totals with the
randomly selected number/combination. After a jackpot is awarded,
the controller resets the number/combination required to win the
jackpot.
[0130] The game rules 710 set the conditions for random selection
705 of the number/combination of symbols which will provide the
winning combination. In this example, minor jackpots require only
hats, major jackpots require a combination from 2 of hats, stars
and smiles, maxi jackpots require combinations from all 3
symbols.
[0131] The award controller 150 determines (using RNG 705):
[0132] Minor jackpot is won with 10 hats, Major jackpot is won with
15 hats and 2 stars Maxi jackpot is won with 10 hats, 5 stars and 1
smile
[0133] Time T1--As above, machine A accumulates symbols and then
hits the key trigger. Machine A sends data to the controller 150.
The controller 150 has no display of accumulated symbols but stores
the current count if symbols as aggregate score data 711 in memory
152. After machine A has communicated data, the aggregate score is
that 8 hats, 4 stars and 1 smile have been accumulated.
[0134] The award evaluator 702 of controller 150 compares the count
with the previously randomly determined winning conditions and
determines that no win is payable.
[0135] Time T2--Machine B accumulates symbols and then hits the key
trigger. Machine B sends data to the controller. The count now
stands at 9 hats, 6 stars, 2 smiles. The award evaluator 702 of
controller 150 compares the count with the winning conditions and
determines that no win is payable.
[0136] Time T3--Machine A accumulates symbols of 1 hat and 1 star
and hits the key symbol. Machine A sends data to the controller
150. The count now stands at 10 hats, 7 stars, 2 smiles. The
jackpot controller compares the count with the winning conditions
and determines that a minor jackpot is payable. The prize is
awarded with appropriate visual and auditory rewards. The aggregate
score of symbols is now reduced to 0 hats, 7 stars and 2 smiles.
The controller 150 now randomly selects a new condition for winning
the minor jackpot. This is now set at 15 hats.
[0137] Time T4--Machine C accumulates 5 hats and 1 smile, and the
key is won. Machine C sends data to the controller. The count now
stands at 5 hats, 7 stars and 3 smiles. The controller compares
this to the winning condition and no prize is paid.
[0138] Time T5--machine B accumulates 10 hats, 2 stars and 1 smile.
The key is won and machine B sends data to the controller 150. The
count is updated to 15 hats, 9 stars and 4 smiles. The controller
compares the count to the award conditions. This meets the
conditions for 2 of the awards. The controller 150 pays the larger
prize so the major jackpot is paid. The count is reset to 0 hats, 7
stars and 4 smiles. The controller 150 determines the new trigger
point for the maxi jackpot as 5 stars and 2 smiles. It will be
noted that the accumulated count already meets that requirement, so
that jackpot will be won by the next machine to send data to the
controller 150 (unless a higher valued jackpot is won).
[0139] An advantage of this example, is that if a machine 10 gets
the trigger symbol (aggregation event) with no symbols accumulated,
the player still win a prize--i.e. it is not necessary to have
accumulated symbols on the local machine in order to that the
aggregation event provide a chance of winning The final example
shows why that condition is desirable.
[0140] It will be understood to persons skilled in the art of the
invention that many modifications may be made without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention, in particular it will
be apparent that certain features of embodiments of the invention
can be employed to form further embodiments.
[0141] For example, the award controller 150 is shown in FIG. 1 as
a separate entity to the gaming devices 10. In an alternative
embodiment, it could be provided by one of the gaming devices
incorporating a server module arranged to implement the award
controller in the manner described in Australian patent application
2008205413 filed 13 Aug. 2008.
[0142] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to have player
interaction to send the symbols to the controller 150. In such
embodiments, the player may be allowed to hold their local score
until such time as they believe it likely that it will contribute
to a win. Alternately, the player may not have a choice as to
whether to communicate their symbols and is required to press the
button to increase their involvement.
[0143] In some cases, where the player can see how many symbols are
accumulated on their machine and how many are required, the player
may be able to determine how many symbols are sent to the
controller so that they win but do not leave the controller with
added symbols. In other examples, there may be limits on the number
of symbols which can be communicated from a local machine at one
time, for example a player may accrue 12 star symbols but only
communicate 10. This may be advantageous in cases where the number
and/or combination of symbols required for a prize award is
advertised. In such an example, individual gaming machines can be
configured to communicate no more than a number of symbols required
to win the prize.
[0144] It will be appreciated that other techniques can be used to
keep score, for example points may be awarded and the awarded score
can be represented in a number of different ways, for example,
graphically by a gauge. In another embodiment, the number of
symbols awarded on local machines may not be an integer, for
example, the total may stand at 1.53 star symbols. In such an
example, the gaming machine may be arranged to only communicate
whole symbols to the controller--e.g. such that if 1.53 symbols are
accumulated 1 symbol is communicated and a balance of 0.53 symbols
remains.
[0145] It will also be appreciated that the local scores for
individual gaming devices need not be stored at the gaming devices.
This is particularly applicable to a server based gaming
arrangement, where the award controller may be implemented by a
server within the gaming system and may maintain individual scores
for each gaming device as well as an aggregate score.
[0146] It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to
herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the
prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art
in any country.
[0147] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description
of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due
to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise"
or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an
inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated
features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further
features in various embodiments of the invention.
* * * * *