Gaming Machine And Methods Of Playing A Keno-type Game Having Non-player Selectable Symbols

Abstract

A method of allowing a player to play a keno-type game on a gaming machine is described herein. The method includes displaying the keno-type game including a plurality of game symbols. The plurality of game symbols includes a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol. A first collection of game symbols is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols. A second collection of game symbols is randomly selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The method includes determining if a triggering condition occurs, wherein the triggering condition is defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol, and generating a game outcome based on the selected first collection and the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates generally to gaming machines and more particularly, to an apparatus and method for allowing players to play a keno-type game having non-player selectable symbols on gaming machines.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] At least some known gaming machines display keno games that include a plurality of numbers that are displayed on a keno board and are selectable by the player. During play of known keno games, the player selects one or more of the numbers displayed on the keno board and inputs the selections to the gaming machine. The gaming machine conducts a draw wherein the gaming machine randomly selects a predefined number of balls, each representing a corresponding number displayed on the keno board. After the gaming machine has completed the draw, the gaming machine compares the numbers selected during the draw to the numbers selected by the player and provides the player an award based on the number of matches that occur between the player selected numbers and the machine selected numbers.

[0003] Over time, during game play, the player may become frustrated because the chances of receiving an award are based only of the number of matches made between the player selected numbers and the machine selected numbers. Accordingly, new features are necessary to appeal to player interest and enhance excitement in order to entice longer play and increased profitability. The present invention is directed to satisfying these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In one aspect of the present invention, a method of allowing a player to play a keno-type game on a gaming machine is provided. The method includes allowing a player to make a wager and responsively displaying, on a display device, a first round of the keno-type game including a plurality of game symbols. The plurality of game symbols includes a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol. A first collection of game symbols is selected based on a player selection input received from an input device. The first collection is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols. A second collection of game symbols is randomly selected. The second collection of game symbols is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The method includes determining if a triggering condition occurs, wherein the triggering condition is defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol. An outcome of the first round game is generated based on the selected first collection and the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition. The method also includes providing a first award determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

[0005] In another aspect of the present invention, a gaming machine displaying a keno-type game is provided. The gaming machine includes a display device, a user input device for generating a signal indicative of a player's selection input, and a controller for allowing a player to make a wager and responsively displaying a first round of the keno-type game on the display device. The keno-type game includes a plurality of game symbols including a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol. The controller selects a first collection of game symbols based on a player selection input received from an input device, wherein the first collection is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols. The controller also randomly selects a second collection of game symbols, wherein the second collection of game symbols is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The controller determines if a triggering condition occurs, wherein the triggering condition is defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol, and generates an outcome of the first round game based on the selected first collection, the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition. The controller provides a first award as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

[0006] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a system is provided. The system includes a plurality of gaming devices and a system controller. Each gaming device includes a user input device for accepting a player's selection input and a display device. The system controller is coupled to each gaming device for displaying a game on at least one gaming device. The keno-type game includes a plurality of game symbols including a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol. The system controller selects a first collection of game symbols based on a player selection input received from an input device, wherein the first collection is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols. The system controller also randomly selects a second collection of game symbols, wherein the second collection of game symbols is selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The system controller determines if a triggering condition occurs, wherein the triggering condition is defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol, and generates an outcome of the game based on the selected first collection, the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition. The system controller provides a first award as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary gaming machine of the present invention;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a graphical display of a keno-type game that is played on the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0011] FIG. 4 is another graphical display of a keno-type game that may be played with the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an exemplary gaming system of the present invention; and

[0013] FIGS. 6-8 are flowcharts of a method of allowing a player to play a keno-type game on a gaming machine, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0015] With reference to the drawings and in operation, the present invention overcomes at least some of the disadvantages of known gaming machines by providing a gaming machine that allows the player to play a keno-type game that provides the player an enhanced award if a triggering condition occurs in the outcome of the keno-type game. More specifically, the gaming machine allows a player to play a keno-type game that includes a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol, and modifies an outcome of the game if the gaming machine selects the non-player selectable game symbol during the game. In addition, the gaming machine allows a player to select a first collection of game symbols from the set of player selectable game symbols, and randomly draws a second collection of game symbols from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The gaming machine determines if a game symbol selected in the second collection matches the non-player selectable game symbol and responsively modifies the game outcome if the non-player selectable game symbol is selected. For example, if the non-player selectable game symbol is drawn in the second collection, the gaming machine may provide a bonus multiplier, free bonus rounds, additional player selections, additional draws, and/or stop the draw. By providing a gaming machine that displays a keno-type game that has a non-player selectable game symbol and that provides and/or modifies an award if the non-player selectable game symbol is drawn, the player's expectation for achieving a win is increased and the enjoyment of the game is improved. Thus, the amount of time that the game is played by patrons of a gaming establishment is thereby increased.

[0016] In general, the gaming machine 10 allows a player to initiate a gaming session to play a keno-type game via the gaming machine 10. The gaming machine 10 displays a game including a plurality of game symbols including a plurality of player selectable symbols and at least one non-player selectable symbol, accepts a wager on the game, and allows the player to select a plurality of game symbols from a set of player selectable symbols. The gaming machine 10 conducts a draw and randomly selects game symbols from the plurality of game symbols including the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The gaming machine 10 also determines if a triggering condition occurs including the selection of the non-player selectable gaming symbol during the draw, and generates an outcome of the game based on the player selected symbols, the symbols selected during the draw, and the triggering condition. The gaming machine 10 also provides an award to the player that is determined as a function of the number of games symbols selected by the player that match the game symbols selected during the draw and the occurrence of the triggering condition.

[0017] During game play, if the triggering condition occurs, the gaming machine 10 modifies the outcome of the game. For example, the gaming machine 10 may provide a bonus multiplier to the player and provide an enhanced award to the player equal to the award and the bonus multiplier. In addition, the gaming machine 10 may increase the number of symbols selected during the draw. Moreover, the gaming machine 10 may award the player additional free games and/or award the player additional games and an award bonus multiplier. In one embodiment, the gaming machine 10 also may stop the draw after the triggering condition occurs. Because the gaming machine 10 modifies the outcome of the game if the non-player selectable game symbol is selected during the draw, the player's anticipation of an additional award is increased, thus increasing the period of time the gaming machine 10 is played by the player.

[0018] A selected embodiment of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiment of the present invention is provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 10, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the gaming machine 10. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is a video gaming machine preferably installed in a casino. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes the display device 12 for displaying a plurality of games, a user input device 14 to enable a player to interface with the gaming machine 10, and a gaming controller 16 that is operatively coupled to the display device 12 and the user input device 14 to enable a player to play games displayed on the display device 12. The gaming machine 10 also includes a cabinet assembly 18 that is configured to support the display device 12, the user input device 14, and/or the gaming controller 16 from a supporting surface.

[0020] The display device 12 and the user input device 14 are coupled to the cabinet assembly 18 and are accessible by the player. In one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 is positioned within the cabinet assembly 18. Alternatively, the gaming controller 16 may be separated from the cabinet assembly 18, and connected to components of the gaming machine 10 through a network such as, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), dial-in-connections, cable modems, wireless modems, and/or special high-speed Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) lines.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the display device 12 includes a display 24 including a flat panel display, such as a cathode ray tube display (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode display (LED), a plasma display, and/or any suitable visual output device capable of displaying graphical data and/or text to a user. Alternatively, a single component, such as a touch screen, may function as both the display device 12 and as the user input device 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the display device 12 displays a game screen 26 (shown in FIG. 3) including indicia and/or symbols for use in a game, e.g., symbols for a keno game, cards used by a card game, roulette wheel and symbols used in a roulette game, and reels used in a reel game. The game screen 26 may include any type of game including, but not limited to, a video keno game, a video slot game, a blackjack game, a video poker game, or any type of game which allows a player to make a wager, play a game, and potentially provide the player an award based on an outcome of the game and a paytable. In addition, the display device 12 may display game play instructions for performing the game including, but not limited to, playing instructions, paytables, paylines, betting lines and/or any other information to enable the gaming machine 10 to function as described herein. Moreover, in one embodiment, the display device 12 may include a plurality of displays 24 that each are be configured to display at least a portion of the game screen 26 and/or game play instructions.

[0022] The user input device 14 includes a plurality of input buttons 28, a coin slot 30, a bill acceptor 32, and a coin tray 34 for dispensing coins to the player. In one embodiment, the input buttons 28 include a plurality of BET switches 36 for inputting a wager on a game and selecting a number of rounds to be played during a gaming session, a plurality of selection switches 38 for allowing a player to select a plurality of game symbols, a CLEAR switch 40 for de-selecting player selected game symbols, a QUICKPICK switch 42 for selecting the player selected game symbols, a PAYOUT switch 44 for ending a gaming session and dispensing accumulated gaming credits to the player, and a start button, i.e. a DRAW switch 46 to initiate an output of a game.

[0023] The coin slot 30 includes an opening that is configured to receive coins and/or tokens deposited by the player into the gaming machine 10. The gaming machine 10 converts a value of the coins and/or tokens to a corresponding amount of gaming credits that are used by the player to wager on games played on the gaming machine 10. The bill acceptor 32 includes an input and output device that is configured to accept a bill, a ticket, and/or a cash card into the gaming machine 10 to enable an amount of gaming credits associated with a monetary value of the bills, ticket, and/or cash card to be credited to the gaming machine 10.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 2, in the illustrated embodiment, the gaming controller 16 includes a processor 48, a database 50, a memory device 52 coupled to the processor 48 and the database 50, a credit module 54, a random-number generator 56, a display module 58, a player selection module 60, and a draw selection module 62. The memory device 52 includes a computer readable medium, such as, without limitation, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, a diskette, a flash drive, a compact disc, a digital video disc, and/or any suitable device that enables the processor 48 to store, retrieve, and/or execute instructions and/or data.

[0025] The processor 48 executes various programs, and thereby controls other components of the gaming controller 16 according to player instructions and data accepted by the user input device 14. The processor 48 in particular executes a game program, and thereby conducts a game in accordance with the embodiments described herein. The memory device 52 stores programs and databases used by the processor 48. Moreover, the memory device 52 stores and retrieves information in the database 50 including, but not limited to, a game type, a number of game symbols associated with a game, a number of player selectable game symbols, a number of non-player selectable game symbols, image data for producing game images and/or screens on the display device 12, and temporarily stores variables, parameters, and the like that are used by the processor 48. In addition, the memory device 52 stores indicia, symbol weights, paytables, and/or winning combination tables which represent relationships between combinations of random numbers, combinations of symbol matches and types of awards. In one embodiment, the memory device 52 utilizes RAM to temporarily store programs and data necessary for the progress of the game, and EPROM to store, in advance, programs and data for controlling basic operation of the gaming machine 10, such as the booting operation thereof.

[0026] The credit module 54 manages the amount of player's credits, which is equivalent to the amount of coins and bills counted and validated by the bill acceptor 32. The credit module 54 converts a player's credits to coins, bills, or other monetary data by using the coin tray and/or for use in dispensing a credit voucher via the bill acceptor 32.

[0027] The display module 58 controls the display device 12 to display various images on screens preferably by using computer graphics and image data stored in the memory device 52. More specifically, the display module 58 controls the game symbols displayed in a keno-type game screen displayed on the display device 12 by using computer graphics and the image data.

[0028] The player selection module 60 receives a player selection input from the input device 14 and selects game symbols based on the player's selection. The random-number generator (RNG) 56 generates and outputs random numbers to the processor 48 preferably at the start of each round of game. The draw selection module 62 generally uses the random numbers to select one or more game symbols from the plurality of game symbols. In addition, the processor 48 may use random numbers generated by the RNG 56 to determine if a triggering condition has occurred in the outcome of the game, and to determine whether or not to provide an award to a player. For example, if the game is a keno-type game, the draw selection module 62 uses the RNG 56 to randomly select a plurality of game symbols during a symbol draw. In another embodiment, the player selection module 60 may use the random numbers to select the player selected game symbols. For example, a player may select a "quick-pick" operation via the user input device 14, wherein the player selection module 60 uses the random numbers to select one or more game symbols for use as the player selected game symbols.

[0029] The processor 48 compares the game symbols selected by the draw selection module 62 to the player selected game symbols selected by the player selection module 60 to determine a number of player selected symbols matching the randomly selected game symbols. The processor 48 also compares the determined symbol matches with winning combinations stored in the winning combination table to determine if the symbol matches include a winning outcome that is associated with a type of award. In addition, the processor 48 determines if a triggering condition occurred in the game and modifies the game outcome based on the triggering condition.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a graphical display of the keno-type game 64 that is displayed by the gaming machine 10 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is another graphical display of the keno-type game 64 that may be played with the gaming machine 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming controller 16 is configured to display the game 64 on the display device 12. In one embodiment, the game 64 is a video keno game. However, it should be noted that the game 64 may be any type of game upon which a player could make a wager including, but not limited to a slot game, a blackjack game, a video poker game, or any type of game that enables the gaming machine 10 to function as described herein.

[0031] In general, during play of the game 64, the gaming controller 16 displays the game including a plurality game symbols 66. The plurality of game symbols 66 include a set 68 of player selectable game symbols 70 and at least one non-player selectable game symbol 72. The set 68 of player selectable game symbols 70 includes game symbols that are selectable by the player for use during the game 64. More specifically, the player selectable game symbols 70 include game symbols 66 that may be selected by the player via the user input device 14 and are used by the gaming controller 16 for determining an outcome of the game 64. The non-player selectable game symbols 72 include game symbols 66 that are not selectable by the player. Moreover, the non-player selectable game symbols 72 are only available for selection by the draw selection module 62 for use in determining an outcome of the game 64.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of game symbols 66 are displayed in a grid 74 having a plurality of symbol positions 76 arranged along a plurality of rows 78 and a plurality of columns 80. Each symbol position 76 displays a corresponding game symbol 66. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming controller 16 displays the game 64 including a total of 81 symbol positions 76 displayed within the grid 74 arranged in 9 rows 78 and 9 columns 80 in a "9.times.9" arrangement. Alternatively, any number of symbol positions 76 may be displayed in any suitable grid arrangement including, for example, 80 symbol positions 76 displayed in a 8.times.10 arrangement, 40 symbol positions 76 displayed in a 5.times.8 arrangement, 72 symbol positions 76 arranged in a 7.times.7 arrangement, and/or any suitable number of symbol positions 76 displayed in any suitable row 78 and column 80 combination to enable the gaming controller 16 to function as described herein. Moreover, the gaming controller 16 may display the game 64 including a plurality of grids 74 including a first grid 77 and a second grid 79 (shown FIG. 4). In addition, the grid 74 may be displayed with a plurality of shapes such as, for example, a rectangle (shown in FIG. 4), a square (shown in FIG. 3), a diamond, a circle, and/or any suitable shape that enables the gaming controller 16 to function as described herein.

[0033] Each keno game is generally played in a conventional manner. The player makes a wager, which may be based on a predetermined denomination and a selected number of game symbols to be selected by the player and/or a selected number of game symbols to be drawn by the gaming controller 16, selects one or more game symbols from the plurality of game symbols, and initiates a symbol draw operation. During the symbol draw operation, the gaming controller 16 randomly selects one or more game symbols 66 and compares the player selected game symbols with the drawn game symbols. The gaming controller 16 displays an outcome of the game 64 including a number of matched symbols between the player selected symbols and the drawn symbols and provides an award to the player based on the number of matched symbols, the wager, and a predetermined paytable. Moreover, the gaming controller 16 may determine a type of game symbol that is matched between the player selected symbols and the drawn symbols and award a payout if the matched symbol types are associated with a predefined symbol type. Many variations to the above described general play of a keno game fall within the scope of the present invention. Such keno games are well-known in the art, and are therefore not further discussed.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming machine 10 receives a signal from the user input device 14 that is indicative of a player's selection to initiate a gaming session including a wager amount and a selection of one or more game symbols 66. More specifically, the gaming controller 16 displays the game 64 including the set 68 of player selectable game symbols 70 and the non-player selectable game symbol 72. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 3, the game 64 is displayed having the plurality of symbol positions 76 arranged in the grid 74 having a central symbol position 82. The non-player selectable game symbol 72 is displayed in the central symbol position 82 with the player selectable game symbols 70 displayed in the symbol positions 76 surrounding the non-player selectable game symbol 72. Alternatively, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be displayed in any symbol position 76 within the grid 74 and/or displayed in a symbol position 76 located adjacent to the grid 74 (shown in FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 is not displayed with the game outcome 64 such that the non-player selectable game symbol 72 is not visible by the player during the game 64.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, each player selectable game symbol 70 is displayed with a corresponding reference number. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the set 68 of player selectable game symbols 70 include symbols 1 through 80. In addition, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be displayed with a reference numeral and/or be displayed with a symbol image 84, e.g. a "star" symbol shown in FIG. 3. In another embodiment, each player selectable game symbol 70 is displayed with a corresponding symbol image 84 as shown in FIG. 4.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming controller 16 operates in a player selection mode, a draw selection mode, and a match determination mode. During game play, the controller accepts a wager from the player to initiate play of a first round of the game 64. In the player selection mode, the gaming controller 16 selects a first collection 86 of game symbols 66 based on a player selection input received from the input device 14. More specifically, the player selection module 60 selects one or more player selectable game symbols 70 based on the player selection input received from the input device 14. Alternatively, the player selection module 60 may use random numbers from the RNG 56 to randomly select one or more player selectable game symbols 70 included in the first collection 86. The first collection 86 is selected from the set 68 of player selectable game symbols 70 and includes one or more player selectable game symbols 70 that are selected by the player selection module 60. The gaming controller 16 displays the first collection 86 on the game screen 26 by displaying each selected game symbol 66 with a first marking 88 (displayed as a "slash" mark in FIGS. 3 and 4) and/or modifying the symbol image 84 associated with the player selected symbol to indicate the selection to the player.

[0037] In the draw selection mode, the gaming controller 16 randomly selects a second collection 90 of game symbols 66 during a symbol draw. The second collection 90 is selected from the plurality of game symbols 66 including the set 68 of player selectable game symbols 70 and the non-player selectable game symbol 72. More specifically, the draw selection module 62 uses random numbers from the RNG 56 to select one or more game symbols 66 included in the second collection 90. The gaming controller 16 displays the second collection 90 on the game screen 26 by displaying each selected game symbol 66 with a second marking 92 (displayed as a "circle" mark in FIGS. 3 and 4) and/or modifying the symbol image 84 associated with the randomly selected second collection 90 to indicate each game symbol 66 selected during the draw. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming controller 16 determines a number of game symbols 66 to be selected for the second collection 90 during the symbol draw. In one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 determines the number of selections made during the draw as a function of a wager made by the player, a player selection input, and/or a number of game symbols 66 selected by the player during the player selection mode. Alternatively, the gaming controller 16 may select a predefined number of selections for the second collection 90. In addition, the gaming controller 16 may randomly select a number of selections to be made for the second collection 90 based on the player's wager, the symbols selected in the first collection 86, symbol weights, paytables, and/or winning combination tables.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be selected only once during the symbol draw. For example, if the gaming controller 16 determines that 5 game symbols 66 will be selected during the draw and the draw selection module 62 selects the non-player selectable game symbol 72 as the 1.sup.st drawn symbol, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 is not available for the remainder of the symbol selections. Alternatively, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be selected more than once during the symbol draw such that non-player selectable game symbol 72 is available to be selected for each selection made by the draw selection module 62 during the symbol draw. Moreover, in one embodiment, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 may only be available for a predefined number of selections, for example, if the draw selection module 62 has selected the non-player selectable game symbol 72 twice during the symbol draw, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 is not available to be selected for the remainder of the symbol selections made in the symbol draw. In addition, if more than one non-player selectable game symbol 72 is displayed in the game 64 (as shown in FIG. 4), each non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be selected only once during the symbol draw, and/or at least one non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be selected more than once during the symbol draw.

[0039] In the determination mode, the gaming controller 16 determines if a triggering condition occurs and generates an outcome of the game 64 based on the selected first collection 86, the selected second collection 90, and the occurrence of the triggering condition. The gaming controller 16 also determines a number of randomly selected game symbols 66 included in the second collection 90 matching the game symbols 66 included in the first collection 86. In addition, the gaming controller 16 provides an award to the player that is determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on the determined number of game symbols 66 from the second collection 90 matching the game symbols 66 in the first collection 86. In general, the term "award" may be a payout, in terms of credits or money. Thus, the gaming controller 16 may award a regular payout in response to the outcome of the game 64. However, it should be noted that the term award may also refer to other types of awards, including, prizes, e.g., meals, show tickets, etc. . . . , as well as in-game award, such as free games, bonus symbols, and/or special game modes.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming controller 16 provides an enhanced award to the player if the triggering condition occurs. In one embodiment, the enhanced award includes an award multiplier that increases an amount of the award received by the player such that the enhanced award is equal to an award based on the number of game symbol matches multiplied by the award multiplier. In another embodiment, the enhanced award may be one or more additional rounds of the game 64 and/or one or more additional games. During each additional game round, the gaming controller 16 may conduct an additional symbol draw and select an additional number of game symbols 66, and provide the player an award based on the number of matches between the additional drawn game symbols 66 and the game symbols 66 previously selected by the player. In addition, in one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 may allow the player to select the game symbols 66 for each new round. Moreover, in one embodiment, the player may select a new collection of game symbols 66 for each additional game. In addition, the gaming controller 16 may award the player an enhanced award during each subsequent game round and/or game in which the trigging condition occurs.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the triggering condition occurs when at least one of the randomly selected game symbols 66 in the second collection 90 matches the non-player selectable game symbol 72. During play of the game 64, the gaming controller 16 determines if any of game symbols 66 selected in the second collection 90 matches the non-player selectable game symbol 72 and determines the triggering condition to have occurred if a selected game symbol 66 matches the non-player selectable game symbol 72. In one embodiment, the non-player selectable game symbol 72 may be selected during each selection of the second collection 90. The gaming controller 16 determines a number of game symbols 66 in the second collection 90 matching the non-player selectable game symbol 72 and provides an enhanced award to the player based on the determiner number of non-player selectable game symbol matches. In addition, in one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 provides an enhanced award that includes an award multiplier that is indicative of the number of non-player selectable game symbol matches. For example, the gaming controller 16 may determine the second collection 90 includes 5 non-player selectable game symbol matches, and provides the player an enhanced award equal to a 5.times. multiplier factor, and awards the player a total award equal to the award for matches between the first and second collections 86 and 90 multiplied by the 5.times. multiplier factor. Moreover, in one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 may provide an enhanced award that includes a special game mode, a number of additional game rounds, and/or additional games that is equal to the number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

[0042] In one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 may award the player a plurality of predefined enhanced awards, wherein each predefined enhanced award is associated with a corresponding number of non-player selectable game symbol matches. For example, in one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 determines a number of non-player selectable game symbol matches included in the second collection 90. The gaming controller 16 also determines the predefined enhanced award associated with the determined number of matches and provides the enhanced award to the player. In one embodiment, each predefined enhanced award may have an increasing value corresponding to an increasing number of matches. For example, the gaming controller 16 may award a 2.times. award multiplier for 2 non-player selectable game symbol matches, award the 2.times. award multiplier and a bonus game for 3 non-player selectable game symbol matches, and award a 4.times. award multiplier for more than 4 non-player selectable game symbol matches. Moreover, the gaming controller 16 may award any suitable combination of enhanced awards corresponding with any suitable number of predefined non-player selectable game symbol matches. In addition, the number of non-player selectable matches may be determined for each game round, or may be accumulated over several game rounds such that the controller provides an enhanced award corresponding to the cumulative number of non-player selectable game symbol matches made during a predefined number of game rounds.

[0043] In one embodiment, during the draw selection mode, the gaming controller 16 determines a number of game symbols 66 to be selected for the second collection 90 and randomly selects a game symbol 66 for each of the number of game symbol selections. The gaming controller 16 also determines whether the triggering condition occurs in each selection before making a subsequent selection, and stops the symbol draw selection if the triggering condition occurs. For example, in one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 determines that 5 selections will be made during the symbol draw and, for each selection, determines if the triggering condition occurs. If the triggering condition occurs after the 3.sup.rd selection is made, the gaming controller 16 stops the symbol draw and does not select the 4.sup.th and 5.sup.th symbol selections. Moreover, if the gaming controller 16 determines that the 3.sup.rd game symbol selected matches the non-player selectable game symbol 72, the gaming controller 16 stops the draw selection and determines the award based on the drawn game symbols 66.

[0044] In one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 may increase the number of game symbols 66 included in the symbol draw of the second collection 90 if the triggering condition occurs during the symbol draw. For example, in one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 may determine a first number of game symbols 66 to be selected for the second collection 90, randomly select a game symbol 66 for each of the first number of selections, and, for each selection, determine if the triggering condition has occurred. Upon determining that the triggering condition has occurred, the gaming controller 16 may determine a second number of game symbols 66 to be selected for the second collection 90 such that a total number of selections made for the second collection 90 is equal to the first number of selections and the second number of selections. Alternatively, the gaming controller 16 may award the player a predefined number of additional player selections for the first collection 86 if the triggering condition occurs in any selection made during the symbol draw. For example, if the triggering condition occurs during the symbol draw, the gaming controller 16 may suspend the draw and award the player additional symbol selections for the first collection 86 such that the total number of game symbols 66 in the first collection 86 is increased. Once the player has made the additional selections, the gaming controller 16 may continue the symbol draw and provide an award as a function of the matches between the total number of game symbols 66 in the first collection 86 and the game symbols 66 in the second collection 90.

[0045] In one embodiment, the gaming controller 16 may remove a predefined number of game symbols 66 that may be selected from the symbol draw to increase a probability of a first collection symbol 86 to be selected by the draw selection module 62 during the symbol draw. For example, upon determining the triggering condition has occurred, the gaming controller 16 determines the game symbols 66 that are not included in the player selected first collection 86 and removes one or more of the non-selected symbols from the game symbols 66 available for the symbol draw. By removing the non-selected symbols, the probability of a first collection symbol 86 being selected in the symbol draw is increased. Moreover, in one embodiment, upon determining the triggering condition has occurred, the gaming controller 16 may convert one or more game symbols 66 to a bonus symbol, wherein the gaming controller 16 provides an enhanced award to the player if the bonus symbol is included in the second collection 90 during the symbol draw.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an exemplary gaming system 200. The gaming system 200 includes a system controller 202 and one or more gaming terminals 204 that are coupled to the system controller 202. In one embodiment, the gaming terminal 204 includes the gaming machine 10. In another embodiment, gaming terminal 204 may include a personal computer, laptop, cell phone, smartphone, tablet computer, personal data assistant, and/or any suitable computing device that enables a player to connect to system controller 202 to play the game 64.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming machines 10 and the system controller 202 are coupled in communication with a local area network (LAN) 206. Alternatively, the gaming machines 10 and the system controller 202 may be coupled via a network such as, for example, an Internet link, an intranet, a WAN, dial-in-connections, cable modems, wireless modems, and/or ISDN lines. In one embodiment, the system controller 202 may be implemented by one of the gaming controllers 16 associated with a gaming machine 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the system controller 202 includes a processor 48, a database 50, a memory device 52 coupled to the processor 48 and the database 50, a credit module 54, a random-number generator 56, a display module 58, a player selection module 60, and a draw selection module 62. The system controller 202 is configured to perform all of the functions of the gaming controller 16 as described herein.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the system controller 202 includes multiple instances of the game 64 such that each gaming terminal 204 may play a separate instance of the game 64 simultaneously. Alternatively, the system controller 202 enables players on one or more gaming terminals 204 to simultaneously play the same game.

[0049] FIGS. 6-8 are flowcharts of a method 300 of allowing a player to play a keno-type game on the gaming machine 10. Referring to FIG. 6, in the illustrated embodiment, the method 300 includes allowing 302 a player to make a wager and responsively displaying a first round of the keno-type game 64. The method 300 also includes selecting 304 the first collection 86 of game symbols 66 based on a player selection input received from an input device, and randomly selecting 306 the second collection 90 of game symbols 66. The method 300 also includes determining 308 if a triggering condition occurs, generating 310 an outcome of the first round game based on the selected first collection 86 and the selected second collection 90 and the occurrence of the triggering condition, and providing 312 a first award determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection 90 matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection 86. The method 300 also includes providing 314 an enhanced award if the triggering condition occurs.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the method 300 also includes determining 316 a number of game symbols to be selected in the second collection 90, randomly selecting 318 a game symbol for each of the number of game symbol selections, determining 320, for each selection, whether the triggering condition has occurred, and stopping 322 the selection of subsequent game symbols if the triggering condition occurs.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the method 300 also includes determining 324 a first number of game symbols being selected for the second collection 90, randomly selecting 326 a game symbol for each of the first number of selections, determining, for each selection, if the triggering condition has occurred, and determining 328 a second number of game symbols to be selected for the second collection 90 if the triggering condition has occurred, and randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the second number of selections such that a total number of selections for the second collection is equal to the first number of selections and the second number of selections.

[0052] An exemplary technical effect of the methods, systems, and computers described herein includes at least one of (a) allowing a player to make a wager and responsively displaying, on a display device, a first round of the keno-type game including a plurality of game symbols, the plurality of game symbols including a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol; (b) selecting a first collection of game symbols based on a player selection input received from an input device, the first collection being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols; (c) randomly selecting a second collection of game symbols, the second collection of game symbols being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol; (d) determining if a triggering condition occurs, the triggering condition being defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol; (e) generating an outcome of the first round game based on the selected first collection and the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition; and (f) providing a first award determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

[0053] The above-described systems and methods overcome at least some disadvantages of known gaming machines by providing a gaming machine that allows a player to player a keno-type game that includes a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol, and modifies an outcome of the game if the gaming machine selects the non-player selectable game symbol during the game. In addition, the gaming machine allows a player to select a first collection of game symbols from the set of player selectable game symbols, and randomly draws a second collection of game symbols from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol. The gaming machine determines if a game symbol selected in the second collection matches the non-player selectable game symbol and responsively modifies the game outcome if the non-player selectable game symbol is selected. For example, if the non-player selectable game symbol is drawn in the second collection, the gaming machine may provide a bonus multiplier, free bonus rounds, additional player selections, additional draws, and/or stop the draw. By providing a gaming machine that allows the player to play a keno-type game that provides enhanced awards if a triggering condition occurs during the game, the player's expectation for achieving a win is increased and the enjoyment of the game is improved. Thus, the amount of time that the game is played by patrons of a gaming establishment is thereby increased.

[0054] Exemplary embodiments of a gaming machine, a gaming system, and a method of allowing a player to play a keno-type game on a gaming machine are described above in detail. The gaming machine, system, and method are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of the gaming machine and/or system and/or steps of the method may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or steps described herein. For example, the gaming machine may also be used in combination with other gaming systems and methods, and is not limited to practice with only the gaming machine as described herein. Rather, an exemplary embodiment can be implemented and utilized in connection with many other gaming system applications.

[0055] A controller, computing device, or computer, such as described herein, includes at least one or more processors or processing units and a system memory. The controller typically also includes at least some form of computer readable media. By way of example and not limitation, computer readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology that enables storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and include any information delivery media. Those skilled in the art should be familiar with the modulated data signal, which has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. Combinations of any of the above are also included within the scope of computer readable media.

[0056] The order of execution or performance of the operations in the embodiments of the invention illustrated and described herein is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, the operations described herein may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and embodiments of the invention may include additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the scope of aspects of the invention.

[0057] In some embodiments, a processor, as described herein, includes any programmable system including systems and microcontrollers, reduced instruction set circuits (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), programmable logic circuits (PLC), and any other circuit or processor capable of executing the functions described herein. The above examples are exemplary only, and thus are not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term processor.

[0058] In some embodiments, a database, as described herein, includes any collection of data including hierarchical databases, relational databases, flat file databases, object-relational databases, object oriented databases, and any other structured collection of records or data that is stored in a computer system. The above examples are exemplary only, and thus are not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term database. Examples of databases include, but are not limited to only including, Oracle.RTM. Database, MySQL, IBM.RTM. DB2, Microsoft.RTM. SQL Server, Sybase.RTM., and PostgreSQL. However, any database may be used that enables the systems and methods described herein. (Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation, Redwood Shores, Calif.; IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation, Armonk, N.Y.; Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Wash.; and Sybase is a registered trademark of Sybase, Dublin, Calif.)

[0059] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Other aspects and features of the present invention can be obtained from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims. It should also be noted, that the steps and/or functions listed within the appended claims, notwithstanding the order of which steps and/or functions are listed therein, are not limited to any specific order of operation.

[0060] Although specific features of various embodiments of the invention may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the invention, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

Claims

1. A method of allowing a player to play a keno-type game on a gaming machine, comprising the steps of: allowing a player to make a wager and responsively displaying, on a display device, a first round of the keno-type game including a plurality of game symbols, the plurality of game symbols including a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol; selecting a first collection of game symbols based on a player selection input received from an input device, the first collection being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols; randomly selecting a second collection of game symbols, the second collection of game symbols being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol; determining if a triggering condition occurs, the triggering condition being defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol; generating an outcome of the first round game based on the selected first collection and the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition; and providing a first award determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

2. A method in accordance with claim 1, further comprising the step of providing an enhanced award if the triggering condition occurs.

3. A method in accordance with claim 2, wherein the enhanced award includes at least one of an award multiplier and a second game round.

4. A method in accordance with claim 1, wherein the non-player selectable symbol may be selected during each selection of the second collection game symbols, the method further comprising the steps of: determining a number of second collection selections matching the non-player selectable game symbol; and awarding the player an enhanced award based on the determined number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

5. A method in accordance with claim 4, wherein the enhanced award includes a multiplier of the first award, the multiplier being indicative of the number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

6. A method in accordance with claim 4, wherein the game includes a plurality of predefined enhanced awards, each of the predefined enhanced awards being associated with a corresponding number of non-player selectable game symbol matches, the method further comprising the steps of determining the number of second collection selections matching the non-player selectable game symbol and responsively providing the corresponding predefined enhanced award to the player.

7. A method in accordance with claim 1, further comprising the steps of: determining a number of game symbols being selected for the second collection; randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the game symbol selections; and, for each selection, determining if the triggering condition has occurred and responsively stopping the selection of game symbols if the triggering condition occurs.

8. A method in accordance with claim 1, further comprising the steps of: determining a first number of game symbols being selected for the second collection; randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the first number of selections; and, for each selection, determining if the triggering condition has occurred and responsively determining a second number of game symbols being selected for the second collection and randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the second number of selections such that a total number of selections for the second collection is equal to the first number of selections and the second number of selections.

9. A method in accordance with claim 1, further comprising the steps of displaying the game outcome having a plurality of symbol positions arranged in a grid, each player selectable symbol being displayed in a corresponding symbol position.

10. A method in accordance with claim 9, wherein the grid includes a central symbol position, the non-player selectable game symbol being displayed in the central symbol position.

11. A method in accordance with claim 9, wherein the non-player selectable game symbol is not being displayed in the game outcome.

12. A gaming machine for displaying a keno-type game, comprising: a display device; a user input device configured to generate a signal indicative of a player's selection input; and a controller coupled to the display device and the user input device, the controller for allowing a player to make a wager and responsively displaying a first round of the keno-type game on the display device, the keno-type game including a plurality of game symbols, the plurality of game symbols including a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol, the controller for selecting a first collection of game symbols based on a player selection input received from an input device, the first collection being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols, the controller for randomly selecting a second collection of game symbols, the second collection of game symbols being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol, the controller for determining if a triggering condition occurs, the triggering condition being defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol, the controller for generating an outcome of the first round game based on the selected first collection and the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition, and for providing a first award determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

13. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 12, the controller for providing an enhanced award if the triggering condition occurs.

14. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 13, wherein the enhanced award includes at least one of an award multiplier and a second game round.

15. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 12, wherein the non-player selectable symbol may be selected during each selection of the second collection game symbols, the controller for determining a number of second collection selections matching the non-player selectable game symbol, and for awarding the player an enhanced award based on the determined number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

16. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 15, wherein the enhanced award includes a multiplier of the first award, the multiplier being indicative of the number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

17. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 15, wherein the game includes a plurality of predefined enhanced awards, each of the predefined enhanced awards being associated with a corresponding number of non-player selectable game symbol matches, the controller for determining the number of second collection selections matching the non-player selectable game symbol and responsively providing the corresponding predefined enhanced award to the player.

18. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 12, the controller for determining a number of game symbols being selected for the second collection, for randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the game symbol selections, for determining, for each selection, whether the triggering condition has occurred, and for responsively stopping the selection of game symbols if the triggering condition occurs.

19. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 12, the controller for determining a first number of game symbols being selected for the second collection, for randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the first number of selections, determining, for each selection, whether the triggering condition has occurred, and for responsively determining a second number of game symbols being selected for the second collection and randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the second number of selections such that a total number of selections for the second collection is equal to the first number of selections and the second number of selections.

20. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 12, the controller for displaying the game outcome having a plurality of symbol positions arranged in a grid, each player selectable symbol being displayed in a corresponding symbol position.

21. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 20, wherein the grid includes a central symbol position, the non-player selectable game symbol being displayed in the central symbol position.

22. A gaming machine in accordance with claim 20, wherein the non-player selectable game symbol is not being displayed in the game outcome.

23. A system, comprising: a plurality of gaming devices, each gaming device including a user input device for accepting a player's selection input and a display device; and a system controller coupled to each gaming device of the plurality of gaming devices for displaying a keno-type game on at least one gaming device, the keno-type game including a plurality of game symbols, the plurality of game symbols including a set of player selectable game symbols and a non-player selectable game symbol, the system controller for selecting a first collection of game symbols based on a player selection input received from an input device, the first collection being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols, the system controller for randomly selecting a second collection of game symbols, the second collection of game symbols being selected from the set of player selectable game symbols and the non-player selectable game symbol, the system controller for determining if a triggering condition occurs, the triggering condition being defined as at least one of the randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the non-player selectable game symbol, the system controller for generating an outcome of the game based on the selected first collection and the selected second collection and the occurrence of the triggering condition, and for providing a first award determined as a function of the outcome based at least in part on a number of randomly selected game symbols in the second collection matching the player selected game symbols in the first collection.

24. A system in accordance with claim 23, the system controller for providing an enhanced award if the triggering condition occurs.

25. A system in accordance with claim 24, wherein the enhanced award includes at least one of an award multiplier and an additional round of the game.

26. A system in accordance with claim 23, wherein the non-player selectable symbol may be selected during each selection of the second collection game symbols, the system controller for determining a number of second collection selections matching the non-player selectable game symbol, and for awarding the player an enhanced award based on the determined number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

27. A system in accordance with claim 26, wherein the enhanced award includes a multiplier of the first award, the multiplier being indicative of the number of non-player selectable game symbol matches.

28. A system in accordance with claim 26, wherein the game includes a plurality of predefined enhanced awards, each of the predefined enhanced awards being associated with a corresponding number of non-player selectable game symbol matches, the system controller for determining the number of second collection selections matching the non-player selectable game symbol and responsively providing the corresponding predefined enhanced award to the player.

29. A system in accordance with claim 23, the system controller for determining a number of game symbols being selected for the second collection, for randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the game symbol selections, for determining, for each selection, whether the triggering condition has occurred, and for responsively stopping the selection of game symbols if the triggering condition occurs.

30. A system in accordance with claim 23, the system controller for determining a first number of game symbols being selected for the second collection, for randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the first number of selections, determining, for each selection, whether the triggering condition has occurred, and for responsively determining a second number of game symbols being selected for the second collection and for randomly selecting a game symbol for each of the second number of selections such that a total number of selections for the second collection is equal to the first number of selections and the second number of selections.

31. A system in accordance with claim 23, the system controller for displaying the game outcome having a plurality of symbol positions arranged in a grid, each player selectable symbol being displayed in a corresponding symbol position.

32. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the grid includes a central symbol position, the non-player selectable game symbol being displayed in the central symbol position.

33. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the non-player selectable game symbol is not being displayed in the game outcome.