Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02487575 2009-08-19
GAMING MACHINE HAVING A MANUAL REEL SET-UP FEATURE
Field of the Disclosure
[0001] This invention is directed to gaming machines, and more
particularly, to a gaming machine having an enhanced game play scheme.
Background
[0002] Gaming machines providing base games such as electronically
driven video slots, video poker, video blackjack, video keno, video bingo,
video
pachinko, video lottery, and mechanically driven reel slots, etc., are well
known
in the gaming industry. Generally gaming machines are configured to operate as
"stand-alone" units (that may or may not be coupled to a backroom computer)
where the outcome of game play is "locally determined", or as part of a server-
based gaming network where the outcome of game play may be either locally
determined or "centrally determined".
[0003] Slot games provided by either video slot machines or mechanical
spinning reel slot machines have proven to be one of the most popular wagering
games. As a result, slot game designers continually seek ways to improve game
play and increase coin-in revenue per wagering game (e.g., the amount wagered
by the player per game). For example, competition for slot game players has
resulted in game designs with lower game play denominations for those players
desiring maximum game play time for their coin-in. Competition has also
resulted in slot game designs with higher numbers of pay lines to increase an
occurrence of a winning symbol combination per wagering game and to increase
coin-in revenue per wagering game. There is a visual limit, however, to the
maximum number of pay lines that can be offered per wagering game.
[0004] Bonus games are also utilized to attract slot game players and to
increase coin-in revenue per wagering game. Bonus games, typically initiated
by an occurrence of a bonus triggering event occurring during slot game play,
are desirable because they generally result in some type of win for the
player.
For example, some bonus games associated with slot game play provide "free"
spins to the player.
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[0005] Because of the popularity of bonus games, gaming machine
manufacturers have attempted to use them to as a basis to increase coin-in
revenue per wagering game played. For example, one bonus scheme allows a
player to buy a chance to participate in a bonus game where bonus game play
may yield a progressive jackpot. This chance to participate in the bonus game
is
provided to the player in exchange for the player providing "additional coin-
in"
(i.e., coin-in that is above what is required for standard base game play on
the
gaming machine). Although this scheme does result in an increased coin-in
amount per slot game played, the additional coin-in amounts are utilized to
fund
the progressive jackpot rather than to increase coin-in revenues per game.
[0006] Another bonus scheme allows a player to pay 5 addition credits per
spin (multiplied by the amount bet per line) to possibly qualify for bonus
game
play if a bonus triggering event occurs during the reel spin and if the player
has
selected the maximum number of pay lines bet per game. Without the 5
additional credits per spin per pay line, bonus game play will never be
triggered.
Thus, for a player desiring a possible chance to participate in bonus game
play,
the player's coin-in must increase from 20 credits to 25 credits per pay line
selected. Although this scheme does result in an increased coin-in revenue
amount per game, the player must always select to play the maximum number of
pay lines; a costly proposition for the player just to have a possible chance
to
participate in bonus game play.
Summary of the Invention
[0007] In general, the present invention provides a gaming machine
having an enhanced game play scheme where, in response to a first wager for
base game play plus additional coin-in per game (a second wager), a player has
an opportunity for enhanced game play. In other words, for additional coin-in
per
game, an existing aspect of game play is enhanced. Therefore, depending on
the gaming machine configuration, the additional coin-in per game may result
in
one of a number enhanced game play schemes that increase player excitement
while at the same time, increase coin-in revenue per game played.
[0008] In one embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may result in
more frequent bonus game play via lowering a threshold for a bonus triggering
event to occur.
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[0009] In another embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may result
in an enhanced or "supersized" bonus game to be awarded to the player when
bonus game play is triggered. Enhanced bonus game play results in a higher
value payout average than standard bonus game play.
[0010] In a yet another embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may
result in an enhanced bonus game having a lower threshold for a bonus
triggering event to occur; a combination enhanced bonus game scheme.
[0011] In a further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may result
in a winning symbol combination paying an enhanced award associated with an
enhanced pay table rather than paying a standard award associated with a
standard pay table.
[0012] In further additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may result in a winning symbol combination paying an enhanced award
corresponding to a multiplied value payout for a winning game outcome.
[0013] In yet an additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may result in a modified value payout scheme after displaying a partial game
outcome.
[0014] In another further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may enable player pre-spin reel set-up in the case of a slot machine.
[0015] In yet a further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may
operate as insurance yielding a guaranteed value payout in the event of a non-
winning outcome of game play.
[0016] In an additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per game may
be collected after the initial wager at a time when the game outcome is only
partially displayed. The additional coin-in per game results in a larger value
payout in the event of a winning outcome.
[0017] In yet an additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may activate game features.
[0018] In another additional embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may activate one or more special reel symbol(s) capable of being repositioned
within an outcome symbol array to yield a higher value payout.
[0019] In another further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may activate additional reel movement after the outcome symbol array is
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displayed to reposition an extra reel symbol into the outcome symbol array and
yield a higher value payout.
[0020] In yet another further embodiment, the additional coin-in per game
may activate a possibility of generating an extra pay line that includes an
extra
reel symbol if the extra pay line results in a higher value payout.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of
conducting a wagering game on a slot machine, the slot machine including a
plurality of rotating symbol bearing reels, a display device, and a controller
having a processor and a memory, the method comprising:
providing an option for manual reel set-up;
detecting a manual reel set-up wager from a player, the manual reel set-up
wager indicating player selection of the manual reel set-up option;
in response to detecting the manual reel set-up wager, enabling the manual
reel set-up option by the player; and
detecting manual rotation of the plurality of symbol bearing reels by the
player
to place symbols on the plurality of symbol bearing reels in a first symbol
array,
the first symbol array selected by the player.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a
gaming machine for conducting an enhanced wagering game, the gaming
machine comprising:
a display device;
a value input device; and
a controller coupled to the display device and the value input device, the
controller having a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the
controller being programmed to
provide an option for manual reel set-up,
detect a manual reel set-up wager from a player, the manual reel set-
up wager indicating player selection of the manual reel set-up option,
in response to detecting the manual reel set-up wager, enable the
manual reel set-up option by the player, and
detect manual rotation of one or more of a plurality of symbol bearing
reels by the player to place symbols on the plurality of symbol bearing
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reels in a first symbol array, the first symbol array selected by the
player.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a
method of conducting a wagering game comprising:
displaying a plurality of symbol bearing reels having a pre-spin symbol array;
in response to receiving a manual reel set-up wager, enabling manual reel
set-up by a player; and
detecting manual rotation of one or more of the plurality of symbol bearing
reels by the player to place symbols on the plurality of symbol bearing reels
in
a manually set symbol array, the manually set symbol array being selected by
the player.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a
method of conducting a wagering game comprising:
displaying on a display of a gaming machine a plurality of symbol bearing
reels having a first symbol array;
receiving a wager from a player for conducting a wagering game;
prior to conducting the wagering game, detecting manual rotation of one or
more of the plurality of symbol bearing reels by the player to place symbols
on
the plurality of symbol bearing reels in a second symbol array;
conducting the wagering game by rotating and stopping the symbol bearing
reels to display a randomly selected third symbol array; and
awarding a value payout if:
(i) the third symbol array includes one of a plurality of winning symbol
combinations of the wagering gaming, or
(ii) a combination of symbols of the third symbol array matches a
combination of symbols of the second symbol array.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a
method of conducting a wagering game comprising:
displaying an initial symbol array arranged on a plurality of symbol bearing
reels of a gaming machine;
receiving a wager from a player for enabling a manual set-up of the plurality
of symbol bearing reels;
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in response to the enabling of the manual set-up, manually rotating by the
player at least one of the plurality of symbol bearing reels to arrange
symbols
on the plurality of symbol bearing reels in a player-preferred symbol array;
after achieving the player-preferred symbol array, conducting a wagering
game by rotating and stopping the plurality of symbol bearing reels to display
a
randomly selected symbol array; and
awarding a value payout.
[0021] Additional aspects of the invention will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed description of various
embodiments, which is made with reference to the drawings, a brief description
of which is provided below.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0022] FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a gaming
machine having an enhanced game play scheme in accordance the invention.
[0023] FIGURE 2 is a block diagram of the electronic components of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0024] FIGURE 3 is a flowchart of an embodiment of an enhanced game
play scheme routine that may be performed during game play of the gaming
machine of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIGURE 4 is a flowchart of another embodiment of an enhanced
game play scheme routine that may be performed during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0026] FIGURE 5 is an exemplary mechanical button panel for enhanced
game play on the gaming machine of FIG. I.
[0027] FIGURE 6 is an exemplary display screen that may be displayed
on the gaming machine of FIG.1 during performance of the enhanced game play'
scheme routine of FIG. 3.
[0028] FIGURES 7-12 are a series of exemplary display screens that may
be displayed during performance of yet another embodiment of an enhanced
game play scheme routine performed during game play of the gaming machine
of FIG. 1.
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[0029) FIGS. 13-18 are a series of exemplary display screens that may be
displayed during performance of a further embodiment of an enhanced game
play scheme routine during game play of the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
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[0030] FIGS. 19-22 are a series of exemplary display screens that may be
displayed during performance of yet a further embodiment of an enhanced game
play scheme routine during game play of the gaming machine of FIG. 1.
[0031] FIGURE 23 is a flowchart of an embodiment of a Buy-a-Multiplier
game play scheme routine that may be performed during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1.
Description of the Preferred Examples
[0032] The description of the preferred examples is to be construed as
exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment of the
invention. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using
either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of
this
patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims defining the
invention.
[0033] In general, the present invention provides a gaming machine
having a number of enhanced game play schemes where, in response to receipt
of a second wager to select an option for enhanced game play, a player is
provided with enhanced game play. The option may be provided before or after
a first wager from the player. Enhanced game play may include (1) providing
more frequent bonus game play, (2) providing a larger value payout for bonus
game play, (3) providing more frequent bonus game play and providing a larger
payout for bonus game play, (4) providing a larger value payout for base game
play, (5) providing a guaranteed payout at a predetermined value if a game
outcome is a non-winning outcome, (6) providing one or more game features, (7)
providing a multiplied value payout, (8) enabling the player to manually
adjust
the reel symbol array prior to a game play reel spin, (9) providing a larger
value
payout for base game play if, after a partial game outcome is displayed, the
player selects the option, (10) activating an extra wild symbol capable of
being
repositioned within an outcome symbol array to yield a higher value payout,
(11)
providing a possibility of an additional movement of a reel to reposition an
extra
reel symbol, above or below the outcome symbol array, into the outcome symbol
array to yield a higher value payout, or (12) providing a possibility of
generating
an extra pay line that includes an extra reel symbol, above or below an
outcome
symbol array, if the extra pay line results in a higher value payout, to name
a
few.
CA 02487575 2009-08-19
[0034] As described below, the present invention is preferably
implemented using a video slot machine. It is contemplated that the present
invention may also be implemented using other types of video gaming machines
or, in some cases, using an adaptable mechanical spinning reel gaming machine
having flat panel transmissive display positioned in front of the mechanical
spinning reels. The flat panel transmissive display is adapted to, among other
things, superimpose video images upon the mechanical spinning reels. A
mechanical spinning reel gaming machine with superimposed video images
generated by a flat panel transmissive display is described in United States
Patent 6,517,433, entitled "Reel Spinning Slot Machine With Superimposed
Video Image", naming. Loose et al. as inventors, filed May 22, 2001 ("the
Loose
et al. patent").
[0035] An advantageous feature of the gaming machine having an
enhanced game play scheme is that, in response to an additional wager per
game, a player has an opportunity for enhanced game play, thereby increasing
player enjoyment and increasing coin-in revenue per game. Thus, unlike prior
art schemes that allow a player to become eligible for possible game play
(e.g.,
bonus game play, progressive jackpot game play) via an additional wager, the
gaming machine having one or more enhanced game play scheme allows a
player "super-size" existing game play by enhancing base game play, enhancing
bonus game play, enhancing the frequency of bonus game play, enhancing pay
table value payouts, multiplying value payouts, pre-configuring symbol arrays,
etc., via placing a second, or additional wager.
[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one possible embodiment of a
gaming machinel0 offering an enhanced game play scheme. The gaming
machine 10 may be configured as a stand-alone gaming machine or may be
configured as part of a server-based gaming network having one or more
coupled servers and a number of additional gaming machines. The gaming
machine 10 may be any type of wagering gaming machine offering the enhanced
game play scheme and may therefore have varying structures and methods of
operation. For example, the gaming machine 10 may be a video gaming
machine configured to play a video wagering game, or it may be a mechanical
spinning reel slot machine (with or without an arm mechanism). For exemplary
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purposes, various elements of the gaming machine 10 are described below, but
it should be understood that numerous other elements may exist and may be
utilized in any number of combinations to create a variety of gaming machine
types.
[0037] Referring to Fig. 1, the gaming machine 10 includes a cabinet 12
having a door 14 to provide access to the interior of the gaming machine 10.
Attached to the door 14 are audio speaker grills 17 and a belly glass area 18
that
typically displays game theme artwork. Sounds provided via the audio speaker
grills 17 and associated audio speakers may include the sound of spinning slot
machine reels, a dealer's voice, music, announcements or any other audio
related to the wagering game.
[0038] Also attached to the door 14 are a number of value input devices
that allow a player to insert value for game play. The value input devices may
include a coin slot acceptor 20 or a note acceptor 22 to input value to the
gaming
machine 10. The note acceptor 22 may accept value in any number of forms,
including currency or a currency-sized paper ticket voucher inscribed with
information such as a bar code representing value, the name of the casino, the
date, etc. As used herein, the term "value" may encompass gaming tokens,
coins, paper currency, ticket vouchers, credit or debit cards, smart cards,
and
any other object representative of value.
[0039] The gaming machine 10 may also include a player tracking area 23
having a card reader 24, a keypad 25 and a small display 26. As will be
appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the player tracking area 23
may
be located in any number of areas of the gaming machine 10. The small display
26 may be implemented using a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), a liquid
crystal display (LCD), an LED display, and/or a touch screen to display
information to a game player or casino employee. The card reader 24 may
include any type of card reading device, such as a magnetic card reader,
memory card reader, an optical card reader, etc. The card reader 24 may be
used to read data from a card (e.g., a credit card, a player tracking card, a
smart
card, etc.) offered by a player. If provided for player tracking purposes, the
card
reader 24 may be used to read data from, and/or write data to, cards capable
of
storing data. Such data may include the identity of a player, the identity of
a
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casino, the player's gaming habits, etc. Once gathered, the data can be
"mined"
(i.e., the data is sorted to identify patterns and establish relationships)
for any
number of purposes including administering player awards, distinguishing
player
preferences and habits, accounting, etc.
[0040] The gaming machine 10 also includes a main display device 31 for
displaying video game images (e.g., simulated reel symbols, simulated cards,
simulated numbers, etc.), or in the case of a mechanical spinning reel slot
machine, for displaying a symbol array of artwork and blank symbols affixed to
mechanical spinning reels viewable to the player. The symbol array may include
occurrences of non-winning symbol combinations where no value payout is
awarded to the player, or occurrences of winning symbol combinations
(reflected
in a pay table) where value payouts are awarded to the player. In addition,
the
main display device 31 may display animation, 2-D or 3-D images and digital
video playback.
[0041] For video gaming machines, the main display device 31 may be
implemented as a CRT, an LCD, a VFD, a plasma display, an organic liquid
crystal display or other type of video display suitable for use in a gaming
machine, and includes a touch screen. For example, in a video gaming machine
offering a slot game, the main display device 31 may include an LCD-TFT
display displaying video reel artwork symbols and blank symbols.
[0042] For mechanical spinning reel slot machines, the main display
device 31 includes a reel display area and may additionally include a touch
screen. Alternatively, the touch screen may be provided at a location disposed
part from the main display device 31. The reel display area is adapted to
display
game information to a player while, at the same time, allowing the player to
view
a reel symbol array provided by the stopped mechanical spinning reels. The
game information displayed to the player may include game denominations,
available credits, pay lines, wagering information, and other suitable game
information. When the mechanical spinning reels are rotated and stopped, the
resulting symbol array in conjunction with game information displayed in the
reel
display area provide a game outcome and game status to the player.
[0043] Referring again to FIG. 1, the gaming machine 10 may also include
a box top 34 having additional speaker(s) 36 and a top box display device 38.
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Although not separately illustrated, the top box display device 38 may include
a
camera and/or a microphone, and/or physical objects such as mechanical reels,
wheels, or dice. The top box display device 38, if configured as a dynamic
display (e.g., a flat panel video display), may enable a number of game
enhancements such as bonus games, interactive tournament games,
progressive jackpot games, etc. Alternatively, the top box display device 38,
if
configured as a static display, may display award information such as pay
tables
for base or bonus games via glass art.
[0044] The gaming machine 10 may also include a player control panel
44. The player control panel 44 includes a number of pushbuttons or touch-
sensitive areas (i.e., touch screen) that may be pressed by the player to
select
games, make wagers, make gaming decisions, etc. As used herein, the term
"button" is intended to encompass any device that allows a player to make an
input, such as a mechanical input device that must be depressed to make an
input selection or a display area that a player may simply touch. The number
of
pushbuttons may include one or more "Bet" buttons for wagering, a "Max Bet"
button for making the maximum wager allowable for the game, a "Play" button
for beginning pay, a "Repeat" button for repeating the previous wagering
selection, a "Collect" button for terminating play and cashing out of the
game, a
"Help" button for viewing a help screen, a "See Pays" button for causing the
main display device 31 to generate one or more display screens showing the
odds or payout information for the game or games provided by the gaming
machine 10, and a "Call Attendant" button for calling an attendant. Further,
although the player control panel 44 is shown to be separate from the main
display device 31, it should be understood that the control panel 44 could be
generated as a touch-sensitive screen by the main display device 31.
[0045] Referring again to FIG. 1, when a player inserts value in the
gaming machine 10, credits corresponding to the amount deposited are
displayed on a credit meter of the gaming machine 10. After depositing the
appropriate amount of value and making appropriate selections, the player
begins base game play by pulling a mechanical arm or by pushing an
appropriate button such as a Bet button, a Max Bet button, or a Play button on
the player control panel 44. Subsequent game play outcome displayed via the
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main display device 31 may be determined either centrally or locally (1) using
a
random number generator (RNG) resulting in a pseudo random set of outcomes,
or (2) by selecting a game outcome from a fixed set of outcomes (pooled), or
(3)
other suitable technique. In addition, when triggered by a bonus triggering
event
such as an occurrence of selected symbols, a bonus game may be made
available to the player. Like base game play, an outcome associated with bonus
game play may be determined using an RNG, a fixed set of outcomes, or other
suitable technique. Additional details describing enhanced game play on the
gaming machine 10 having an enhanced game play scheme are included below
as described in connection with FIGS. 3-23.
[0046] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of a number of components that may be
incorporated in the gaming machine 10 of FIG 1. Referring to Fig. 2, the
gaming
machine 10, includes a controller 200 that may comprise a program memory 202
(including a read only memory (ROM)), a microcontroller-based platform or
microprocessor (MP) 204, a random-access memory (RAM) 206 and an
input/output (I/O) circuit 208, all of which may be interconnected via a
communications link, or an address/data bus 210. The microprocessor 204 is
capable of displaying images, symbols and other indicia such as characters,
people, places, things, and faces of cards. The RAM 206 is capable of storing
event data or other data used or generated during a particular game. The
program memory 202 is capable of storing program code that controls the
gaming machine 10 so that it plays a particular game in accordance with
applicable math models, game rules, and pay tables. For example, when an
additional coin-in amount is received for a wager, the microprocessor 204,
executing code in the program memory 202, causes a bonus triggering event to
occur and then enables subsequent bonus game play.
[0047] It should be appreciated that although only one microprocessor
204 is shown, the controller 200 may include multiple microprocessors 204. For
example, the controller 200 may include one microprocessor for executing low
level gaming functions and another processor for executing higher-level game
functions such as some communications, security, maintenance, etc. Similarly,
the memory of the controller 200 may include multiple RAMs 206 and multiple
program memories 202, depending on the requirements of the gaming machine
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
10. Although the I/O circuit 208 is shown as a single block, it should be
appreciated that the I/O circuit 208 may include a number of different types
of I/O
circuits. The RAM(s) 206 and program memory(s) 202 may be implemented as
semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, and/or optically
readable memories, etc. Further, the term "controller" is used herein to refer
collectively to the program memory 202, the microprocessor 204, the RAM 206
and the I/O circuit 208.
[0048] Fig. 2 illustrates that multiple peripheral devices, depicted as
peripheral devices 211, 212, and 214, may be operatively coupled to the I/O
circuit 208. The peripheral devices may include a control panel with buttons,
a
coin slot acceptor, a note acceptor, a bill validator, a card reader, a
keypad, a
sound circuit driving speakers, a card reader display, a video display, a
touch
screen, etc. In the case of a spinning reel slot machine, the peripheral
devices
may include a number of electro-mechanical spinning reels and a mechanical
arm similarly coupled to the I/O circuit 208. Although three peripheral
devices
are depicted, more or less peripheral devices may be included.
[0049] It should be appreciated that although the controller 200 is a
preferable implementation of the present invention, the present invention also
includes implementation via one or more application specific integrated
circuits
(ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), adaptable computing
integrated circuits, one or more hardwired devices, or one or more mechanical
devices.
[0050] One manner in which the gaming machine 10 may operate is
described below in connection with one or more flowchart(s) that represents a
number of portions or routines of one or more computer programs, which may be
stored in one or more of the memories of the controller 200. The computer
program(s) or portions thereof may also be stored remotely, outside of the
gaming machine 10 and may therefore control the operation from a remote
location.
[0051] As previously discussed, unlike prior art schemes that allow a
player to be eligible for possible game play (e.g., bonus game, progressive
jackpot) only via additional coin-in, the gaming machine 10 having an enhanced
game play scheme allows a player to optionally "upgrade" game play by
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enhancing existing base game play, enhancing existing bonus game play,
enhancing the frequency of bonus game play, enhancing pay table value
payouts, etc. In an embodiment, player selection of the enhanced game play
may be made prior to initiating the game outcome. In another embodiment (see,
FIG. 4) player selection of the enhanced game play may be made after a partial
game outcome is displayed.
[0052] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an embodiment of an enhanced game play
scheme routine 300 that may be performed by the controller 200 of the gaming
machine 10 or by another controller coupled to the controller 200 (a "coupled
controller") during game play. The enhanced game play scheme routine 300
provides one example of game play where, in response to receipt of a second
wager to select an option, a player is provided with enhanced game play.
Although discussed below in the context of a video slot game for illustrative
purposes, it is contemplated that the enhanced game play scheme routine 300
may be executed in conjunction with any number of other wagering base or
bonus games provided by gaming machines.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 3, the enhanced game play scheme routine 300
begins operation when the controller 200 provides an option for enhanced game
play of the wagering game on the gaming machine 10 (step 302). Exercising the
option by a player may result in (1) providing more frequent bonus game play,
(2) providing a larger value payout average for bonus game play, (3) providing
more frequent bonus game play and providing a larger payout for bonus game
play, (4) providing a larger value payout average for base game play, (5)
providing a guaranteed payout at a predetermined value if a game outcomes
yields only non-winning symbol combinations, (6) providing one or more game
features, (7) providing a multiplied value payout, and (8) enabling the player
to
manually adjust the reel symbol array prior to a game play reel spin.
[0054] Game play is enabled upon detecting a first wager from a player
(step 304). Detection of the first wager includes detecting a value input and
detecting a bet. The controller 200 detects the value input when a player
deposits one or more of coins, paper currency, card, or a voucher into a value
input device of the gaming machine 10. When the controller 200 detects the
value input, a number of credits associated are displayed on a credit meter of
the
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main display device 31. After value input detection, the controller 200
enables a
pay line selection. If there is only one pay line, the controller 200 enables
initiation of base game play. If there is more than one pay line, the
controller 200
also enables a bet-per-pay line selection. The bet-per-pay line selection
causes
an amount per pay line to be bet or wagered with the total wager divided
equally
between each selected pay line if multiple pay lines are selected. The bet-per-
pay line is also displayed to the player via a bet meter on the gaming machine
10. In addition, the controller 200 enables the player to select a maximum bet
(via a "Max Bet Spin" button, for example). Thus, the player may chose the
maximum bet option causing maximum pay line selection and maximum credits
rather than the pay line selection and the bet per pay line selection.
[0055] Pay line selection and bet per pay line selection may be made by
the player using a touch screen and/or a mechanical button panel. FIG. 5 is an
exemplary mechanical button panel 450 for a slot game play on a slot machine
having one or more of the enhanced game play scheme routines described
herein. The mechanical button panel 450 includes four buttons 451, 452, 453,
and 454 for pay line selection, and five buttons 461, 462, 463, 464, and 465
for a
number of credit(s) bet per pay line. Also included is button 455 which when
selected, may enable the player selection of the option for enhanced game
play.
Thus, in a preferred embodiment, providing the option for enhanced game play
may include a first wager where the player selects a maximum number of pay
lines available for the slot game.
[0056] Referring again to FIG. 3, the option for enhanced game play is
selected, or exercised, when the player wagers additional credits. Thus,
enhanced game play is enabled upon detecting a second wager from the player
(step 306). The amount of the second wager may vary depending on the
wagering game offered and further depending on the pay lines selected and the
bet per pay line. For example, if enhanced game play requires an additional 5
credits per credit bet (per pay line), then enhanced game play for a 15 pay
line
bet at 5 credits per pay line would require a second wager equivalent to 25
credits. The total amount wagered for the game would therefore be 100 credits;
75 credits for "un-enhanced" game play plus 25 credits to upgrade to enhanced
game play.
13
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
[0057] Upon detecting the second wager, the controller 200 enables
enhanced game play of the wagering game (step 308); in the illustrated
example, enables a reel spin. The player may spin the reels by depressing a
button such as a "Spin Reels" pushbutton provided on the player control panel
44 or by depressing a video display button provided by a touch screen on the
gaming machine 10. Alternatively, if the slot game is a mechanical spinning
reel
slot game utilizing a number of mechanical spinning reels, the player may pull
a
handle (e.g., an electro-mechanical arm) provided on the gaming machine 10 to
initiate the reel spin. In either case, the controller 200, having determined
a
game outcome based on operation of a pseudo random generator device, stops
the reels such that they display a reel symbol array representing the game
outcome associated with enhanced game play (step 316). If the reel symbol
array includes a winning symbol combination and/or if associated bonus game
play yields credits, a value payout (i.e., one or more credits) is awarded to
the
player (step 318).
[0058] The game outcome and/or the value payout may vary, depending
on the enhancement enabled upon detecting the second wager.
[0059] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the likelihood of an
occurrence of a bonus game, detection of the second wager by the controller
200 may lower the threshold for an occurrence of a bonus game triggering event
(step 310). For example, if un-enhanced game play requires that three like
symbols (e.g., three Waitress symbols) appear, scattered within the reels
symbol
array in order to trigger bonus game play, then enhanced game play may require
that only two like symbols appear in the reels symbol array in order to
trigger
bonus game play. An advantage of this type of game enhancement is increased
entertainment for the player as the interval between bonus game play is
shortened.
[0060] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the value payout
average resulting from bonus game play (step 312), detection of the second
wager by the controller 200 may cause one of any number of enhanced bonus
game schemes having enhanced value payouts to occur. The enhanced value
payouts for bonus game play yield an overall increased value payout average to
the player as compared with the value payout average associated with un-
14
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
enhanced game play. For example, if un-enhanced game play yields10 free
spins per bonus game, then enhanced game play, costing 3 additional credits on
a nine line slot game, may yield 20 free spins per bonus game.
[0061] FIG. 6 is an exemplary display screen 500 that may be displayed
on the gaming machine of FIG.1 during performance of the enhanced game play
scheme routine 300. The exemplary display screen 500 illustrates one example
of an enhanced bonus game having an enhanced value payout. Referring to
FIG. 6, the exemplary display screen 500 includes a video dashboard having a
credit meter 502 for displaying a number of credits available for base game
play
(e.g., 400 credits), a pay line indicator 504 for displaying the number of pay
lines
selected (e.g., 15 pay lines), a bet indicator 506 for displaying the number
of
credits wagered per pay line for an un-enhanced game (e.g., a first wager of 1
credit per pay line). A total bet indicator 508 is also provided for
displaying the
total credits wagered for the game (e.g., 17 credits); in this case, 15
credits for
the first wager, plus 2 credits for the second wager enabling enhanced bonus
game play. Also included are a number of player selectable buttons such as a
select line button 512, a bet per line button 514, a spin/stop reels button
516, a
max bet spin button 518, etc. Although illustrated as virtual touch screen
buttons, some of the player selectable buttons may also be configured into the
mechanical button panel described in connection with FIG. 4.
[0062] In the illustrated example, the player selects the option for
enhanced game play by placing the second wager of 2 additional credits.
Enhanced game play causes doubling of the number of free spins awarded
during bonus game play. Thus, the player, having placed the second wager of
two credits, having won a bonus game, and having selected a first symbol 520
from among five symbols (i.e., five cowboy hats) during bonus game play, is
awarded 16 free spins rather than 8 spins, thereby yielding an overall
increased
value payout average to the player as compared with the value payout average
associated with un-enhanced game play.
[0063] In another example, if un-enhanced game play yields an un-
enhanced value payout amount associated with a bonus game outcome, then
enhanced game play may yield double, triple, etc., the un-enhanced value
payout amount associated with the same bonus game outcome. Returning to
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
the free spin example, for a second wager of 3 credits on a nine pay line slot
game, enhanced game play may yield a bonus game having 10 free spins with
double, triple, etc., value pay outs. In yet a further example, if un-enhanced
game play allows a player during bonus game play to select/reveal items having
a credit value until a bonus game-ending item (e.g., a terminator, a party
pooper)
is selected/revealed, enhanced game play may allow the player during bonus
game play to select/reveal items until two bonus game-ending items are
selected/revealed (e.g., enhanced game play may include one "terminator
saver"). In all of the above examples, additional credits, on average, are
paid
out to the player(s) during enhanced game play of a bonus game. Although too
numerous to mention, other examples of an enhanced bonus game having
increased value payouts for bonus game play, are contemplated.
[0064] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the likelihood of an
occurrence of a bonus game (step 310) and increase in the value payout
average resulting from bonus game play (step 312), detection of the second
wager by the controller 200 may cause one of any number of bonus game
schemes to occur which result in increased bonus game occurrences, increased
value payout averages per bonus game, or both. For example, if un-enhanced
game play of a nine pay line game (e.g., "X Marks The Spot") having three
separate bonus games where the first bonus game is triggered by three like
reel
symbols in a reel symbol array (e.g., Treasure Chest Scatter), the second
bonus
game yields five free spins (e.g., Free Spin Bonus), and the third bonus game
yields three value symbols (e.g., Second Screen Bonus), then enhanced game
play costing 6 additional credits may enable (a) the first bonus game to be
triggered by two like reel symbols, (b) the second bonus game to yield ten
free
spins, and (c) the third bonus game to yield five value symbols. In one
embodiment, the six additional credits provided via the second wager may be
allocated evenly (i.e., 2 credits per bonus game) between the three bonus
games.
[0065] If the enhancement enabled is an increase in the value payout
average resulting from base game play (step 314), detection of the second
wager by the controller 200 may cause one of any number of base game
schemes having enhanced value payouts to occur. The enhanced value
16
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
payouts for base game play yield an overall increased value payout average to
the player as compared with the value payout average associated with un-
enhanced game play. In other words, detection of the second wager by the
controller 200 may cause an increase to all or part of the value payouts
associated with winning symbol combinations displayed on a pay table of the
gaming machine 10. For example, if un-enhanced game play of a five reel game
has a value payout of 200 credits for five like symbols displayed in a symbol
array, then enhanced game play costing 5 additional credits per game per
credit
bet (per pay line), may enable a value payout of 500 credits for the same five
like
symbols. Such an enhancement scheme maximizes the volatility of game play
for those players wishing to exercise the option by placing the second wager.
In
another example, if un-enhanced game play of a five reel game has no value
payout for two like symbols displayed in a symbol array, then enhanced game
play costing 5 additional credits per game per credit bet (per pay line), may
enable a 2 credit payout for all two like symbols displayed in the symbol
array.
Such an enhancement scheme allows for lower volatility game play for a player
wishing to exercise the option by placing the second wager.
[0066] Another example of a base game scheme having an enhanced
value payout includes providing a guaranteed value payout to the player at the
conclusion of every game. Therefore, if the enhancement enabled is providing a
guaranteed payout at a predetermined value if a game outcomes is a non-
winning outcome (step 312), detection of the second wager by the controller
200
may cause one of any number of game schemes to occur where a guaranteed
value payout occurs. For example, if un-enhanced game play of a nine pay line
slot game only yields a value payout for winning symbol combinations appearing
in a pay table of the gaming machine 10, then enhanced game play, costing one
additional credit for every nine pay line slot game, yields a 10 credit value
payout
if the game outcome yields only non-winning symbol combinations.
[0067] If the enhancement enabled is activating one or more game
feature(s), detection of the second wager by the controller 200 may cause one
of
any number of game features to be included in the game. The feature may, for
example, be a special function indicator that indicates a random or
predetermined position(s) on the reels. A symbol landing in the indicated
17
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
position may be considered a wild symbol or a scatter symbol for that spin of
the
reels. The feature may be an expanding wild symbol such that if the player
places the second wager, a regular wild symbol expands to occupy the entire
reel. The feature may be to eliminate or override one or more less-favorable
outcomes in a bonus game. The less-favorable outcome may, for example, be a
low credit award or a stopper (e.g., a terminator or party pooper) symbol in a
bonus round where the player makes selections until selecting an item that
reveals the stopper symbol.
[0068] As mentioned above, enhanced game play may include providing a
larger value payout for base game play if, after a partial game outcome is
displayed, the player selects the option by placing the second wager. The
player
may wish to select such an option when, for example, a partial reel symbol
array
indicates that a winning outcome is more likely than not.
[0069] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of another embodiment 320 of an enhanced
game play scheme routine that may be performed by the controller 200 during
game play of the gaming machine 10 or by a coupled controller during game
play. The enhanced game play scheme routine 320 provides one example of
game play where, in response to receipt of a second wager to select an option,
a
player is provided with enhanced game play after a partial game outcome is
displayed.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 4, the enhanced game play scheme routine 320
begins operation when the controller 200 detects a first wager for game play
of
the wagering game (step 322). Next, the controller 200 enables game play and
then displays a partial wagering game outcome (step 324); in this case,
enables
a reel spin and displays a partial reel symbol array provided by at least two
stopped reels of the total number of reels. The controller 200 then provides
an
option to the player for enhanced game play (step 326) where enhanced game
play includes increasing a value of some or all of the value payouts
associated
with the winning base game outcomes (e.g., winning symbol combinations).
[0071] In response to receiving a second wager indicating player selection
of the option (step 328), the controller 200 displays a full outcome
associated
with enhanced game play (step 332); in this case, stops the remaining spinning
reels to display a full reel symbol array. If the full outcome associated with
18
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
enhanced base game play includes a winning outcome, a value payout is
awarded to the player (step 334) where the value payout reflects the increase
of
some or all of the value payouts associated with the winning base game
outcomes.
[0072] In yet another embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme
routine, the controller 200 provides an option to the player to "purchase"
(for a
second wager amount) a modified value payout scheme after displaying a partial
game outcome. For example, based on a partial game outcome of a slot game
where the first and second left-most reels have been stopped, the player may
wish to purchase an option for a right-to-left line pay. The player may wish
to
select such the option when the partial game outcome reel symbol array
includes
a low occurring and high paying symbol, when it appears that a traditional
left-to-
right line pay is unlikely or when it appears that a right-to-left line pay is
likely.
[0073] FIGS. 7-12 are a series of exemplary display screens 600 that may
be displayed during performance of yet another embodiment of an enhanced
game play scheme routine 650 during game play of the gaming machine of FIG.
1. The exemplary display screens 600 illustrate one example of the enhanced
game play scheme routine 650 where a reel symbol (e.g., a Super Wild symbol)
is able to be repositioned in a reel symbol array if it is activated and if
repositioning would yield a higher value payout to the player.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 7, the exemplary display screen 600 includes a
video dashboard having a credit meter 602 displaying 842 credits, a pay line
indicator 604 displaying 20 pay lines, a bet indicator 606 displaying a first
wager
of 1 credit per pay line, a total bet indicator 608 displaying total credits
wagered
of 20 credits for a first wager for game play. In the illustrated example of
FIG. 7,
the 842 credits displayed on the credit meter 602 reflect a deduction of 20
credits
prior to the reel spin. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in
the art,
in some slot game designs, the deduction of wagered credits may not be
reflected on the credit meter 602 until after the reel spin.
[0075] Also included on the video dashboard of the exemplary display
screen 600 are a number of player selectable buttons such as a select line
button 612, a bet per line button 614, a spin/stop reels button 616, a max bet
spin button 618, etc. Although illustrated as virtual touch screen buttons,
the
19
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
some of the player selectable buttons may also be configured within the
mechanical button panel described in connection with FIG. 4.
[0076] In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, one of the reel symbols on one
of the reels (i.e., on reel five) is designated as a super wild reel symbol
620 (e.g.,
a Super Wild symbol) that is able to be repositioned in an outcome reel symbol
array if the supper wild symbol is activated and if repositioning would yield
a
higher value payout to the player. When the controller 200 detects a first
wager
of a first amount of credits from a player to play the slot game, the
controller 200
provides an option to activate the super wild symbol 620.
[0077] The option is preferably provided only when the first wager
includes player selection of a maximum number of pay lines available for the
slot
game. For example, for a reel symbol array having fifteen reel symbols and up
to twenty player pay lines, the option is preferably provided only when the
first
wager includes player selection of twenty pay lines. It is contemplated that
in
other slot game designs, the option may be offered when less pay lines are
selected, when the first wager includes a maximum number of credits per pay
line bet, etc.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 8, upon receiving a second wager (i.e., a second
amount of credits, in this case 5 credits) indicating player selection of the
option,
the total bet indicator 608 reflects the second wager by increasing from 20 to
25
credits, the super wild symbol 620 is activated and enhanced slot game play is
enabled. The second credit amount is preferably directly proportional to a
number of credits bet per selected pay line(s). Activating may also include
changing a color of the super wild reel symbol to notify the player of the
activated
state. Next, the reels are rotated (see, FIG. 9) and stopped to display a
first reel
symbol array 621. If the super wild symbol 620 appears in the first reel
symbol
array 621 (see, FIG. 10), the super wild symbol 620 is repositioned,(see, FIG.
11) to display a second reel symbol array 623 (see, FIG. 12) if the second
reel
symbol array has a higher value payout than the first reel symbol array. In
the
illustrated example of FIG. 12, the repositioned super wild symbol completes a
four money-symbol pay line resulting in a 100 credit value output.
[0079] Because of the repositioning of the super wild symbol 620, a
probability of an occurrence of a winning outcome is higher in the second reel
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
symbol array than in the first symbol array. Further the super wild symbol is
repositioned by the controller 200 to maximize the value payout to the player.
[0080] FIGS. 13-18 are a series of exemplary display screens 700 that
may be displayed during performance of a further embodiment of an enhanced
game play scheme routine 750 during game play of the gaming machine of FIG.
1. The exemplary display screens 700 illustrate one example of the enhanced
game play scheme routine 750 where a reel displaying a first extra symbol is
able to be "nudged", or undergoes an additional slight movement, to reposition
the first extra symbol in a reel symbol array if the additional movement would
yield a higher value payout to the player.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 13, the exemplary display screen 700 includes a
video dashboard having a credit meter 702, a pay line indicator 704 displaying
20 pay lines, a bet indicator 706 displaying a first wager of 1 credit per pay
line, a
total bet indicator 708 displaying total credits wagered of 20 credits. Also
included are a number of player selectable buttons such as a select line
button
712, a bet per line button 714, a spin/stop reels button 716, a max bet spin
button 718, etc. Although illustrated as virtual touch screen buttons, some of
the
player selectable buttons may also be configured within the mechanical button
panel described in connection with FIG. 4.
[0082] In the illustrated example of FIG 13, a first extra reel symbol 720
(i.e., a gold bar) and a second extra reel symbol 722 (i.e., a money bag) are
displayed above and below the first reel 724 of a first symbol array 727 of
fifteen
reel symbols. When the controller 200 receives a first wager of a first amount
of
credits from a player to play the slot game, the controller 200 provides an
option
to activate a possibility of movement of the first reel 724 to reposition
either the
first extra reel symbol 720 or the second extra reel symbol 722 after the
reels
spin and stop.
[0083] The option is preferably provided only when the first wager
includes player selection of a maximum number of pay lines available for the
slot
game. It is contemplated that the option may be offered however, when less pay
lines are selected, when the first wager includes a maximum number of credits
per pay line bet, etc.
21
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
[0084] Referring to FIG. 14, upon receiving a second wager (i.e., a second
amount of credits) indicating player selection of the option, the total bet
indicator
708 reflects the second wager by increasing from 20 to 25 credits, the
possibility
of movement of the first reel 724 to reposition either the first extra reel
symbol
720 or the second extra reel symbol 722 is activated and therefore enhanced
slot game play is enabled. The second credit amount is preferably directly
proportional to a number of credits bet per selected pay line(s). Activating
may
also include changing a color of the first and second extra reel symbol 720,
722
(see, FIG. 14) and/or displaying the words "SUPER NUDGE ACTIVATED" to
notify the player of the activated state. Next, the reels are rotated (see,
FIG. 15)
and stopped to display a second reel symbol array 729 (see, FIG. 16). The
first
extra reel symbol 720 (i.e., a bank safe) and the second extra reels symbol
722
(i.e., a piggy bank) are also rotated and stopped (see, FIG. 16). If the
addition
movement of the first reel 724 to reposition the first extra symbol 720 into a
third
reel symbol array results in a higher value payout than the second symbol
array
(see, FIG. 17), then the first extra reel will nudge downward by one reel
position
to form the third symbol array 731. Similarly, if the addition movement of the
first
reel 724 to reposition the second extra symbol 722 into a third reel symbol
array
results in a higher value payout than the second symbol array, then the first
extra
reel will nudge upward by one reel position to form the third array 731. In
the
illustrated example of FIG. 18, repositioning the first extra symbol 720, a
bank
safe, into the third reel symbol array creates a five bank safe combination
yielding in a higher value payout than the second symbol array.
[0085] Because of the possibility of repositioning either the first or second
extra reel symbol, a probability of an occurrence of a winning outcome is
higher
in the third reel symbol array than in the second symbol array. Further,
either
the first or second extra reel symbol is repositioned via the additional
movement
of the first reel 724 by the controller 200 to maximize the value payout to
the
player.
[0086] FIGS. 19-22 are a series of exemplary display screens 800 that
may be displayed during performance of yet a further embodiment of an
enhanced game play scheme routine 850 during game play of the gaming
machine of FIG. 1. The exemplary display screens 800 illustrate one example of
22
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
the enhanced game play scheme routine 850 where an extra reel symbol is used
to generate a new pay line having a winning symbol combination and yielding a
value payout to the player.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 19, the exemplary display screen 800 includes a
video dashboard having a credit meter 802 displaying 924 credits, a pay line
indicator 804 displaying 20 pay lines, a bet indicator 806 displaying a first
wager
of 1 credit per pay line, a total bet indicator 808 displaying total credits
wagered
of 20 credits. Also included are a number of player selectable buttons such as
a
select line button 812, a bet per line button 814, a spin/stop reels button
816, a
max bet spin button 818, etc. Although illustrated as virtual touch screen
buttons, some of the player selectable buttons may also be configured within
the
mechanical button panel described in connection with FIG. 4.
[0088] In the illustrated example of FIG 19, an extra reel symbol 820 (i.e.,
gold bar) is displayed above a first symbol array 827 of fifteen reel symbols.
The
extra reel symbol 820 is preferably displayed above the third reel 824
although it
may be displayed above or below any of the reels. When the controller 200
receives a first wager of a first amount of credits from a player to play the
slot
game, the controller 200 provides an option to activate a possibility of
generating
an extra pay line that includes the extra reel symbol 820.
[0089] The option is preferably provided only when the first wager
includes player selection of a maximum number of pay lines available for the
slot
game. It is contemplated that the option may be offered however, when less pay
lines are selected, when the first wager includes a maximum number of credits
per pay line bet, etc.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 20, upon receiving a second wager (i.e., a second
amount of credits) indicating player selection of the option, the total bet
indicator
808 reflects the second wager by increasing from 20 to 25 credits, the
possibility
of generating an extra pay line including the extra reel symbol 820 is
activated
and enhanced slot game play is enabled. The second credit amount is
preferably directly proportional to a number of credits bet per selected pay
line(s). Activating may also include changing a color of the third reel 824
and/or
displaying the words "SUPER SYMBOL ACTIVATED" to notify the player of the
activated state (see, FIG. 20). Next, the reels are rotated (see, FIG. 21) and
23
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
stopped to display a second reel symbol array 829 (see, FIG. 22). The extra
reel
symbol 820 is also rotated and stopped (see, FIG. 21). If the extra reel
symbol
820 (i.e., money bag) completes a winning symbol combination, the extra pay
line 830 is generated including the first extra reel symbol 820 (see, FIG.
22).
The extra pay line 830, including the extra reel symbol 820, may be generated
to
include five reel symbols in one in any number of patterns. In the illustrated
example of FIG. 22, the extra symbol 820 in the extra pay line 830 creates a
five
moneybag combination yielding a value payout of 300 credits.
[0091] Because of the possibility of generating an extra pay line that
includes the extra symbol 820, a probability of an occurrence of a winning
outcome is higher in the third reel symbol array than in the second symbol
array.
Further, the extra pay line is generated by the controller 200 to maximize the
value payout to the player.
[0092] In yet a further embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme
routine the player may have an option to multiply a winning game outcome by a
multiplier number to increase a value output. FIGURE 23 is a flowchart of such
an enhanced game play scheme referred to herein as a Buy-a-Multiplier (BAM)
game play scheme routine 900 that may be performed during game play of the
gaming machine of FIG. 1. The BAM game play scheme routine 900 provides
one example of game play where, in response to receipt of an additional wager
(i.e., a second wager) to select a BAM option, a player is provided with BAM
enhanced game play where value payouts associated with winning game
outcomes are multiplied by a predetermined number, or multiplier. The value of
the multiplier number preferably corresponds to the amount of the additional,
or
second, wager or to the value of the symbol designated, either pre-designated
or
designated by the player, for inclusion in winning symbol combinations
associated with multiplied value payouts. Although referred to herein as a
first
wager to play the wagering game and a second wager to select a BAM option, it
is contemplated that the first and second wager may be combined into a single
wager that includes wagering game play and selection of the BAM option.
[0093] Although discussed in the context of a video slot game, it is
contemplated that the BAM game play scheme routine 900 may be adapted for
any game theme. For example, the BAM game play scheme routine 900 may be
24
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
adapted for a video poker game where, in response to receipt of an additional
wager to select a BAM option, a value payout for one or more selected winning
poker game outcomes (e.g., a poker hand including three Kings) is multiplied
by
a multiplier number of the selected BAM option. Similarly, the BAM game play
scheme routine 900 may be adapted for a video black jack game where, in
response to receipt of an additional wager to select a BAM option, the player
is
awarded a value payout, that may or may not be multiplied, depending on
whether the player's card hand is within a certain point spread (i.e., 2
points) of
the dealer's hand. The BAM game play scheme routine 900 may also be
adapted for a video keno game where, in response to receipt of an additional
wager to select a BAM option, a value payout for one or more winning keno
game outcomes that include a specific number is multiplied by a multiplier
number of the selected BAM option.
[0094] In addition, although referred to herein as a second wager, it is
contemplated that the additional wager for BAM enhanced game play may be
made either before or after the wager for base game play (e.g., the first
wager),
depending on the game design.
[0095] Player selection of the BAM option may be made via a touch
screen button provided by a video gaming machine display, or it may be made
via a mechanical button. The mechanical button may be an existing mechanical
button on the player control panel 44, visually highlighted to direct player's
attention to it at the appropriate selection time. The mechanical button may
also
be a "special" button configured only for BAM game play and may include a
readily identifiable logo.
[0096] To increase coin-in revenue, BAM enhanced game play is
preferably only available to a player when a minimum criteria is met, for
example
when a maximum bet is placed, or in the case of a slot game, when a maximum
number of pay lines are selected for activation. It is contemplated however,
that
BAM enhanced game play may not be subject to a minimum wager criteria and
instead be subject to a qualifying event such as the time of day, the type of
game
offered by the game machine 10, the popularity of the game, insertion of a
player
tracking card, a membership level in a player tracking club, or combinations
thereof, etc.
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
[0097] Referring to FIG. 23, the Buy-a-Multiplier game play scheme
routine 900 begins operation when the controller 200 detects a first wager for
game play of the wagering game (step 902). Upon detecting the first wager, the
controller 200 enables a player selectable BAM option for BAM enhanced game
play (step 904) if the first wager includes a minimum criteria, for example,
when
a maximum number of pay lines are selected for activation for slot game play.
[0098] BAM enhanced game play may include one of any number of Buy-
A-Multiplier game play schemes where value payouts associated with winning
game outcomes are multiplied by a predetermined number that, for example,
corresponds to a second wagered amount. The Buy-A-Multiplier game play
scheme may be configured as a one game-symbol specific BAM enhanced
game where value payouts associated with winning symbol combinations that
include a pre-designated reel symbol may be multiplied by a fixed
predetermined
number. That is, for a second wager, value payouts associated with winning
symbol combinations of the pre-designated game-symbol, for example, winning
combinations of three, four or five cherry reel symbols, may be multiplied by
a
fixed predetermined number (e.g., 2X) and awarded to the player.
[0099] BAM enhanced game play may also be expanded to provide
symbol specific volatility where, for one pre-designated symbol, the value of
the
multiplier increases as the second wager amount is increased; it is therefore
not
a fixed multiplier number. For example, for a second wager of one credit, a
value payout associated with a winning game outcome that includes a pre-
designated SEVEN reel symbol may be multiplied by 5 while, for an increased
second wager of three credits, the value payout associated with a winning game
outcome that includes the SEVEN reel symbol may be multiplied by 15.
[00100] BAM enhanced game play may be further expanded to provide
game specific volatility, where for a particular game, the value of the
multiplier
number varies from reel symbol to reel symbol, with the more likely occurring
reel symbols having a lower multiplier values. Although each multiplier option
may result in different value payouts depending on the symbol selected,
selection of any one of the symbols for inclusion in BAM game play, however,
requires the same second wager amount. Thus, the player, based on his/her
preference for a "lucky" symbol, or based on the different pre-assigned
multiplier
26
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
number values associated with the different reel symbols, can chose a
particular
symbol for inclusion in winning symbol combinations having multiplied value
payouts. In this way, the player can control game volatility.
[00101] For example, the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be
configured so that a second wager of one credit on a cherry reel symbol win
yields a value payout that is 2 times the value payout of its winning symbol
combination while a second wager of one credit on a SEVEN reel symbol yields
a value payout that is 25 times the value payout of its winning symbol
combination, where winning symbol combinations of the SEVEN reel symbol are
less likely to occur than winning symbol combinations of the cherry reel
symbol.
[00102] It is contemplated that the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme
described above may be further configured to allow the player to "multiply"
the
multiplied value payout by multiplying the base value of the second wager. For
example, the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be configured so that
instead of a second wager of one credit on a cherry reel symbol win yielding a
value payout that is 2 times the value payout of its winning symbol
combination,
a second wager of three credits on the cherry reel symbol win would yield a
value payout that is 6 times the value payout of its winning symbol
combination.
Similarly, a second wager of five credits on the cherry symbol (rather than
one
credit) would yield a value payout that is 10 times the value payout of its
winning
symbol combination (rather than 2 times the value payout).
[00103] The Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may also be configured to
allow the player to place simultaneous second wagers for more than one Buy-A-
Multiplier option. For example, the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be
configured so that a "total second wager" of 5 credits corresponds to a second
wager of 2 credits for multiplying a value payout associated with a winning
symbol combination of cherry reel symbols by 1 OX and a "third" wager of 3
credits for multiplying a value payout associated with a winning symbol
combination of SEVEN reel symbols by 25X.
[00104] Further, the Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme may be configured
to allow the player to place a second wager for a Buy-A-Multiplier option
where
value payouts associated with all winning symbol combination are multiplied by
one of a pre-determined or random multiplier number. Similarly, the Buy-A-
27
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
Multiplier game play scheme may also be configured to allow the player to
place
a second wager for a Buy-A-Multiplier option where value payouts associated
with selected winning symbol combinations including a particular symbol or
symbols are multiplied by one of a pre-determined or random multiplier number.
For example, for a second wager of two credits, any value payout associated
with a winning game outcome that includes a cherry reel symbol may be
multiplied by 5. Other reel symbols (e.g., bars, 7's, etc.) or combinations of
reel
symbols (e.g., cherries and/or bars, bars and/or 7's, etc.) could also be
utilized.
[00105] If configured to allow the player to place simultaneous second
wagers for multiple reel symbol, or to multiply the multiplied value payouts
by
multiplying the base value of the second wager, it is contemplated that the
Buy-
A-Multiplier game play scheme would preferably include a cap or maximum total
second wager to prevent a player from placing excessive wagers. In addition,
although five embodiments of a Buy-A-Multiplier game play scheme have been
described above, additional embodiments of the Buy-A-Multiplier game play
scheme are contemplated.
[00106] For example, rather than being pre-determined, the multiplier
numbers may be randomly selected during game play of one or more of the Buy-
A-Multiplier game play schemes discussed above. Similarly, rather than being
pre-designated, the symbols may be randomly selected during game play of one
or more of the Buy-A-Multiplier game play schemes discussed above.
[00107] Referring again to FIG. 23, if the controller 200 does not detect a
second wager, indicating that the player has not selected the BAM option for
BAM enhanced game play, game play is initiated as described in connection with
FIG. 3 and a game outcome is displayed (step 908). If the game outcome
includes a winning symbol combination, the player is awarded accordingly. The
player may either play again if credits remain on the credit meter or may cash-
out. If the game outcome does not include a winning symbol combination, the
player may play again if credits remain on the credit meter or may cash-out.
[00108] Referring again to step 906, if the controller 200 detects a second
wager (or a "third", etc. wager), indicating that the player has selected one
or
more BAM option(s) for BAM enhanced game play according to a BAM game
play scheme, the controller 200 enables BAM enhanced game play (step 912).
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CA 02487575 2004-11-15
Game play is then initiated as described in connection with FIG. 3. and a game
outcome is displayed (step 914).
[00109] (1) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included one pre-
designated symbol with a fixed pre-determined multiplier corresponding to a
fixed second wager amount, then upon receipt of the fixed second wager
amount, value payouts associated with winning symbol combinations of the one
pre-designated symbol will be multiplied by the fixed pre-determined
multiplier
and awarded to the player (e.g., 50 credits awarded). For example, if the BAM
enhanced game play scheme included one cherry reel symbol with a fixed pre-
determined multiplier of 2X for a one credit second wager, then upon receipt
of a
one credit second wager, a value payout associated with a combination of three
reels cherries having a line pay of 25 credits would be multiplied by 2X and
50
credits would be awarded to the player.
[00110] (2) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included one pre-
designated symbol with variable pre-determined multipliers corresponding to a
second wager amount, then value payouts associated with winning symbol
combinations of the one pre-designated symbol will be multiplied by the
appropriate pre-determined multiplier (determined by the second wager amount)
and awarded to the player. For example, if BAM enhanced game play included
one cherry reel symbol with variable pre-determined multipliers of 2X for a
one
credit second wager, 5X for a three credit second wager and 25X for a five
credit
second wager, then upon receipt of a three credit second wager, a value payout
associated with a combination of three reels cherries having a line pay of 25
credits would be multiplied by 5X and 150 credits would be awarded to the
player.
[00111] (3) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included two or more
pre-designated symbols, each having a fixed pre-determined multiplier
corresponding to the same fixed second wager amount, then value payouts
associated with winning symbol combinations of each of the two or more pre-
designated symbols would be multiplied by the appropriate pre-determined
multiplier (determined by player symbol selection) and awarded to the player.
For example, if BAM enhanced game play included one a cherry reel symbol
with a fixed pre-determined multiplier of 2X for a one credit second wager,
and a
29
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
SEVEN reel symbol with a fixed pre-determined multiplier of 5X for a one
credit
second wager, upon player selection of the SEVEN symbol and upon receipt of a
second wager of one credit, a value payout associated with a combination of
three SEVEN symbols having a line pay of 20 credits would be multiplied by 5X
and 100 credits would be awarded to the player.
[00112] (4) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included two or more
pre-designated symbols, each having a variable pre-determined multipliers
where each variable pre-determined multiplier corresponds to a second wager
amount, then value payouts associated with winning symbol combinations of
each of the two or more pre-designated symbols would be multiplied by the
appropriate pre-determined multiplier (determined by player symbol selection
and the second wager amount) and awarded to the player. For example, if BAM
enhanced game play included one cherry reel symbol with variable pre-
determined multipliers of 2X for a one credit second wager, 5X for a three
credit
second wager and 25X for a five credit second wager, and a SEVEN reel symbol
with variable pre-determined multipliers of 5X for a one credit second wager,
1 OX
for a three credit second wager and 20X for a five credit second wager, upon
detecting a player symbol selection of the SEVEN reel symbol and upon receipt
of a second wager of three credits, a value payout associated with a
combination
of three SEVEN symbols having a line pay of 20 credits would be multiplied by
1 OX and 200 credits would be awarded to the player.
[00113] (5) If the BAM enhanced game play scheme included two or more
pre-designated symbols, each having variable pre-determined multipliers
associated with variable second wager amounts, then value payouts associated
with winning symbol combinations of each of the two or more pre-designated
symbols would be multiplied by the appropriate pre-determined multiplier
(determined by player symbol selections and second wager amounts) and
awarded to the player. For example, if BAM enhanced game play included a
cherry reel symbol with variable pre-determined multipliers of 2X for a one
credit
second wager, 5X for a three credit second wager and 25X for a five credit
second wager, and a SEVEN reel symbol with variable pre-determined
multipliers of 5X for a one credit second wager, 1 OX for a three credit
second
wager and 20X for a five credit second wager, upon detecting a first player
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
symbol selection of the SEVEN reel symbol and upon receipt of a second wager
of three credits, and upon detecting a second player symbol selection of the
cherry reel symbol and upon receipt of a third wager of five credits, a value
payout associated with a winning symbol combination of three SEVEN symbols
having a line pay of 20 credits will be multiplied by 10X and a value payout
associated with a winning symbol combination of four cherry symbols having a
line pay of 10 credits will be multiplied by 25X and 450 credits will be
awarded to
the player.
[00114] In still another embodiment of an enhanced game play scheme
routine, the player may have an option to manually set-up the reel
configuration
of slot game reels prior to a reel spin ("manual pre-spin reel set-up"). Once
the
manual pre-spin reel set-up game play scheme is selected by the player, the
duration of the manual pre-spin reel set-up game scheme may be one game or
many games, depending on its configuration. Moreover, a bonus award (e.g.,
credits, free spins) may be awarded to a player if a portion of a symbol array
resulting from the manual pre-spin reel set-up matches a portion of the symbol
array displaying the subsequent game outcome. The portions may vary to
include all or some of the symbol arrays, only winning symbol combination,
selected symbols, or selected pay lines, to name a few. Although the option is
preferably selected by the player upon placing a second wager, it is
contemplated that the option to manually set-up the reel symbol configuration
may be given to the player without the player being required to place the
second
wager.
[00115] Manual pre-spin reel set-up may be desirable to a player who
enjoys perceiving some control over game play. By manually setting-up the reel
configurations, such a player may feel that he/she has increased the odds of
winning a particular symbol combination. In addition, some players may be
"superstitious" and prefer that particular reel symbols be displayed prior to
the
reel spin. For example, on a five reel video slot machine, the player may wish
to
rotate video reels 1, 3 and 4 in order to align four cherry symbols on a
particular
pay line prior to initiating the reel spin, and seemingly increase his/her
odds of
displaying four cherry symbols along an activated pay line in the game
outcome.
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CA 02487575 2004-11-15
[00116] During operation, either before or after the first wager, depending
on the game configuration, the player may configure the reel symbol array, or
"set-up" the reels, in order to display a particular symbol pattern as
mentioned
above. The reel position adjustments may be made in one of any number of
ways depending on the gaming machine type. For video slot machines and for
mechanical spinning reel slot machines having an overlaid flat panel
transmissive display, the player may adjust the reel symbols displayed on the
display 12 by touching under the center of the reel symbol ("under-center") to
rotate its associated reel forward. Similarly, the player may adjust the reel
symbols displayed on the display 12 by touching over the center of the reel
symbol ("over-center") to rotate its associated reel backwards, or vice versa.
Each reel may therefore be rotated by the player to place selected symbols
along activated pay lines prior to initiating and displaying the final game
outcome. In the case of a mechanical spinning reel gaming machine, one or
more mechanical buttons on the player control panel 44 may be utilized to
allow
the player to manually set-up the reel symbol configuration.
[00117] In still a further embodiment, the player may be able to manually
stop selected reels in any order he/she chooses and then place an additional,
or
second wager, to select a BAM option to multiply a value output associated
with
a winning symbol combination by a multiplier number. In this case, the BAM
option would be available to the player as long as the stopped reels did not
indicate a winning symbol combination.
[00118] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a number of other
alternatives exist for enhanced game play schemes that increase the coin-in
revenue per game played. For example, the player may be required to place an
extra wager (i.e., the second wager) to buy virtually any feature or to make
any
feature available to the player.
[00119] As may be apparent from the discussion above, the gaming
machine having a number of enhanced game play schemes increases coin-in
revenue per game played and increases player enjoyment. Thus, unlike prior art
schemes that allow a player to become eligible for possible game play via an
additional wager (e.g., bonus game play, progressive jackpot game play), the
gaming machine having one or more enhanced game play scheme allows a
32
CA 02487575 2004-11-15
player "supersize" existing game play by enhancing base game play, enhancing
bonus game play, enhancing the frequency of bonus game play, enhancing pay
table value payouts, etc., via an additional wager amount.
[00120] From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous variations
and modifications may be affected without departing from the scope of the
novel
concept of the invention. It is to be understood that no limitations with
respect to
the specific methods and apparatus illustrated herein is intended or should be
inferred. It is, of course, intended to cover by the appended claims all such
modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.
33
