Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THREE DIMENSIONAL GAMES IN GAMING SYSTEMS
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] Embodiments described herein relate to the field of electronic
gaming systems,
such as on-line gaming and gaming systems in casinos. In particular,
embodiments described
herein relate to providing three dimensional games in gaming system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Various video gaming systems or machines are known. These may
consist of
slot machines, online gaming systems (that enable users to play games using
computer
devices, whether desktop computers, laptops, tablet computers or smart
phones), computer
programs for use on a computer device (including desktop computer, laptops,
tablet computers
of smart phones), or gaming consoles that are connectable to a display such as
a television or
computer screen.
[0003] Video gaming machines may be configured to enable users to play a
variety of
different types of games. One type of game displays a plurality of moving
arrangements of
gaming elements (such as reels, and symbols on reels), and one or more winning
combinations
are displayed using a pattern of gaming elements in an arrangement of cells
(or an "array"),
where each cell may include a gaming element, and where gaming elements may
define
winning combinations (or a "winning pattern"). A winning combination may
comprise one or
more symbols, where each symbol may be a number, an element or another symbol.
[0004] Games that are based on winning patterns may be referred to as
"pattern games"
in this disclosure.
[0005] One example of a pattern game is a game that includes spinning
reels, where a
user wagers on one or more lines, activates the game, and the spinning reels
are stopped to
show one or more patterns in an array. The game rules may define one or more
winning
patterns of gaming elements, and these winning patterns may be associated with
credits, points
or the equivalent.
[0006] Another example of a pattern game is a KENO game that is played in
and
outside of casinos. Traditionally, such a KENO game typically uses a glass
container called a
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"bubble" having 80 balls within. The 80 balls are numbered consecutively
through 1 to 80, with
each number printed on the ball. Prior to the random draw of balls, players
typically mark N
(e.g. 20) choices on a piece of paper or ticket with 80 consecutively numbered
boxes (from 1-
80), and submit the marked ticket as a wager. During a draw, air is pushed
into the glass
container and the balls are adequately mixed, typically visible to a live
audience, and
subsequently N (e.g. 20) random balls are drawn from the glass container,
forming a winning
combinations or winning pattern based on the number printed on each drawn
ball. Each player
is paid based on the number of matching numbers that are marked on the ticket.
Sometimes
there may be paytables setting out a pay scale. A KENO game may also be
referred to as a
selection game throughout this disclosure.
[0007] Gaming systems or machines of this type are popular, however,
there is a need
to compete for the attention of users, and therefore it is necessary to
innovate by launching
new, engaging game features.
[0008] It is to be understood that gaming components and game components
are
interchangeable terms in this disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] There are described systems, devices, and methods for providing
layered
enhancements to game components in a gaming system. In particular, embodiments
described
herein may provide an electronic gaming machine, an electronic gaming system,
and computer-
implemented method for enhancing game components in a gaming system using
layered three-
dimensional enhancements. The three-dimensional enhancements may involve a
game with
multiple matrices layered in a three-dimensional configuration. The game may
integrate gaming
components from each matrix to determine winning outcomes.
[0010] According to some embodiments of the invention, an electronic
gaming machine
(EGM) for providing a three-dimensional (3D) selection game is provided, the
EGM comprising:
at least one processor;
at least one persistent data store;
at least one receiver to receive game data for storage in the at least one
persistent data store; and
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a display device configured with a user interface to display: 1) a multi-
faceted
gaming surface comprising at least two gaming surface representations; and 2)
a portion of the
game data as a first set of 3D game components on one or more of the at least
two gaming
surface representations in accordance with a set of game rules for a given
game, each one of
the 3D game components having a symbol associated thereto;
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive signals indicating a selected set of 3D game components based
on the first set of 3D game components;
display the selected set of 3D game components;
determine a winning combination comprising one or more winning
symbols; and
display one or more winning 3D game components that correspond to the
one or more winning symbols.
[0011] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to determine a winning outcome or prize based on the one or more
winning 3D game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0012] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the selected set of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner
which visually
distinguishes the selected set of 3D game components from the first set of 3D
game
components.
[0013] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the selected set of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner by:
determining a first set of visual characteristics associated with the first
set of 3D
game components;
retrieving, from the persistent data store, a set of display rules;
determining, based on the set of display rules, a second set of visual
characteristics; and
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displaying the selected set of 3D game components in accordance with the
second set of visual characteristics.
[0014] According to some embodiments of the invention, the first or
second set of visual
characteristics may comprise one or more of: shape, colour, depth level,
spatial frequency,
blackness level, brightness level, dynamic range, transfer function, duty
cycle, and color gamut.
[0015] According to some embodiments of the invention, the visual
characteristics are
displayed in an autostereoscopic manner.
[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention, the distinguishing
manner
comprises displaying the selected 3D game component(s) closer to or further
away along a Z
axis from a screen of the electronic gaming machine.
[0017] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to generate and display a new game as a result of the one or more
winning 3D game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0018] According to some embodiments of the invention, the display device
is
configured with the user interface to display the 3D game components in a
three-dimensional
sphere configuration.
[0019] According to some embodiments of the invention, the display device
is further
configured to display the selected set of 3D game components as continuously
moving along a
X, Y or Z axis.
[0020] According to some embodiments of the invention, an electronic
gaming system
for providing 3D selection game is provided, the system comprising:
a server comprising a transmitter for transmitting electronic data signals
representing game data;
an electronic device comprising:
at least one processor;
at least one persistent data store;
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at least one receiver to receive the electronic data signals representing
game data for storage in the at least one persistent data store; and
a display device configured with a user interface to display: 1) a multi-
faceted gaming surface comprising at least two gaming surface representations;
and 2) a
portion of the game data as a first set of 3D game components on one or more
of the at least
two gaming surface representations in accordance with a set of game rules for
a given game,
each one of the 3D game components having a symbol associated thereto;
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive signals indicating a selected set of 3D game components based
on the first set of 3D game components;
display the selected set of 3D game components;
determine a winning combination comprising one or more winning
symbols; and
display one or more winning 3D game components that correspond to the one
or more winning symbols.
[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, the electronic
device is an a
electronic gaming terminal and wherein the system further comprises:
a mobile gaming device operated by a player coupled via a communications link
to the electronic gaming terminal, the mobile gaming device running a remote
gaming
program to play the game, the electronic gaming terminal programmed to carry
out at
least the game functions of pseudo-randomly determining a game outcome and
determining an award to a player, and receiving player control signals from
the mobile
gaming device to initiate the game;
wherein the electronic gaming terminal is configured to transmit electronic
data
signals to the mobile gaming device identifying the game outcome and the
award.
[0022] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to determine the game outcome based on the one or more winning 3D
game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
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[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the selected set of 3D game components on the mobile gaming device in
a
distinguishing manner which visually distinguishes the selected set of 3D game
components
from the first set of 3D game components.
[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the selected set of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner by:
determining a first set of visual characteristics associated with the first
set of 3D game
components;
retrieving, from the persistent data store, a set of display rules;
determining, based on the set of display rules, a second set of visual
characteristics; and
displaying the selected set of 3D game components in accordance with the
second set
of visual characteristics.
[0025] According to some embodiments of the invention, the first or
second set of visual
characteristics comprise one or more of: shape, colour, depth level, spatial
frequency,
blackness level, brightness level, dynamic range, transfer function, duty
cycle, and color gamut.
[0026] According to some embodiments of the invention, the visual
characteristics are
displayed in an autostereoscopic manner.
[0027] According to some embodiments of the invention, the distinguishing
manner
comprises displaying the selected 3D game component(s) closer to or further
away along a Z
axis from a screen of the mobile gaming device .
[0028] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to generate and display, on a screen of the mobile gaming device, a
new game as a
result of the one or more winning 3D game components that correspond to the
one or more
winning symbols.
[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured
with the user interface to display the 3D game components in a three-
dimensional sphere
configuration on a screen of the mobile gaming device.
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[0030] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to display the selected set of 3D game components as continuously
moving along a
X, Y or Z axis on a screen of the mobile gaming device.
[0031] According to some embodiments of the invention, a computer-
implemented
method for providing 3D selection game components is provided, the method
comprising:
receiving, by a processor, game data for storage in at least one persistent
data store;
displaying, using a display device: 1) a multi-faceted gaming surface
comprising at least
two gaming surface representations; and 2) a portion of the game data as a
first set of 3D game
components on one or more of the at least two gaming surface representations
in accordance
with a set of game rules for a given game, each one of the 3D game components
having a
symbol associated thereto;
receiving signals, by the processor, indicating a selected set of 3D game
components
based on the first set of 3D game components;
displaying, using a display device, the selected set of 3D game components;
determining, by the processor, a winning combination comprising one or more
winning
symbols; and
displaying, using a display device, one or more winning 3D game components
that
correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0032] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further
comprises
determining a winning outcome or prize based on the one or more winning 30
game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0033] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further
comprises
displaying the selected set of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner
which visually
distinguishes the selected set of 3D game components from the first set of 30
game
components.
[0034] According to some embodiments of the invention, displaying the
selected set of
3D game components in a distinguishing manner comprises:
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determining a first set of visual characteristics associated with the first
set of 3D game
components;
retrieving, from the persistent data store, a set of display rules;
determining, based on the set of display rules, a second set of visual
characteristics; and
displaying the selected set of 3D game components in accordance with the
second set
of visual characteristics.
[0035] According to some embodiments of the invention, the first or
second set of visual
characteristics comprise one or more of: shape, colour, depth level, spatial
frequency,
blackness level, brightness level, dynamic range, transfer function, duty
cycle, and color gamut.
[0036] According to some embodiments of the invention, the visual
characteristics are
displayed in an autostereoscopic manner.
[0037] According to some embodiments of the invention, the distinguishing
manner
comprises displaying the selected 3D game component(s) closer to or further
away along a Z
axis from a screen of the electronic gaming machine.
[0038] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further
comprises
generating and displaying a new game as a result of the one or more winning 3D
game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0039] According to some embodiments of the invention, the display device
is further
configured to display the selected set of 3D game components as continuously
moving along a
X, Y or Z axis.
[0040] According to some embodiments of the invention, an electronic
gaming machine
(EMG) for providing a 3D selection game is provided, the EGM comprises:
at least one processor;
at least one persistent data store;
at least one receiver to receive game data for storage in the at least one
persistent data
store; and
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a display device configured with a user interface to display: 1) a multi-
faceted gaming
surface comprising at least two gaming surface representations; and 2) a
portion of the game
data as an initial set of 3D game components on the at least two gaming
surface
representations of a multi-faceted gaming surface in accordance with a set of
game rules for a
given game, each one of the 3D game components having a symbol associated
thereto;
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive signals indicating at least two selected sets of 3D game components
based on the initial set of 3D game components, each respective selected set
of the at
least two selected sets of 3D game components located on a respective one of
the at
least two gaming surface representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface;
display the at least two selected sets of 3D game components;
for each of the at least two gaming surface representations, determine a
winning
combination comprising one or more winning symbols; and
display one or more winning 3D game components that correspond to the one or
more winning symbols.
[0041] According to some embodiments of the invention, each of the at
least two
gaming surface representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface comprises
at least two
selection games and the processor is further configured to determine a winning
combination for
each of the at least two selection games of each of the at least two gaming
surface
representations.
[0042] According to some embodiments of the invention, the multi-faceted
gaming
surface comprises at least four gaming surface representations, and each
gaming surface
representation comprises a face of the multi-faceted gaming surface.
[0043] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least two
selection
games on each of the at least two gaming surface representations is played
based on the initial
set of 3D game components and the at least two selected sets of 3D game
components.
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[0044] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to determine a winning outcome or prize based on the one or more
winning 3D game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0045] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in a
distinguishing manner which
visually distinguishes the at least two selected sets of 3D game components
from the initial set
of 3D game components.
[0046] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in a
distinguishing manner by:
determining a first set of visual characteristics associated with the initial
set of 3D
game components;
retrieving, from the persistent data store, a set of display rules;
determining, based on the set of display rules, a second set of visual
characteristics; and
displaying the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in accordance
with the second set of visual characteristics.
[0047] According to some embodiments of the invention, the first or
second set of visual
characteristics comprise one or more of: shape, colour, depth level, spatial
frequency,
blackness level, brightness level, dynamic range, transfer function, duty
cycle, and color gamut.
[0048] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
further
configured to generate and display a new game as a result of the one or more
winning 3D game
components that correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0049] According to some embodiments of the invention, the signals
indicating the at
least two selected sets of 3D game components comprise at least one of user-
input signals and
machine-input signals.
[0050] According to some embodiments of the invention, an electronic
gaming system
for providing 3D selection game is provided, the system comprising:
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
a server comprising a transmitter for transmitting electronic data signals
representing
game data;
an electronic device comprising:
at least one processor;
at least one persistent data store;
at least one receiver to receive the electronic data signals representing game
data for storage in the at least one persistent data store; and
a display device configured with a user interface to display: 1) a multi-
faceted
gaming surface comprising at least two gaming surface representations; and 2)
a portion of the
game data as an initial set of 3D game components on the at least two gaming
surface
representations of a multi-faceted gaming surface in accordance with a set of
game rules for a
given game, each one of the 3D game components having a symbol associated
thereto;
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive signals indicating at least two selected sets of 3D game components
based on the initial set of 3D game components, each respective selected set
of the at
least two selected sets of 3D game components located on a respective one of
the at
least two gaming surface representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface;
display the at least two selected sets of 3D game components;
for each of the at least two gaming surface representations, determine a
winning
combination comprising one or more winning symbols; and
display one or more winning 3D game components that correspond to the one or
more winning symbols.
[0051]
According to some embodiments of the invention, each of the at least two
gaming surface representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface comprises
at least two
selection games and the processor is further configured to determine a winning
combination for
each of the at least two selection games of each of the at least two gaming
surface
representations.
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[0052] According to some embodiments of the invention, the multi-faceted
gaming
surface comprises at least four gaming surface representations, and each
gaming surface
representation comprises a face of the multi-faceted gaming surface.
[0053] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least two
selection
games on each of the at least two gaming surface representations is played
based on the initial
set of 3D game components and at least one of the at least two selected sets
of 3D game
components.
[0054] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in a
distinguishing manner which
visually distinguishes the at least two selected sets of 3D game components
from the initial set
of 3D game components.
[0055] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processor is
configured to
display the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in a
distinguishing manner by:
determining a first set of visual characteristics associated with the initial
set of 3D
game components;
retrieving, from the persistent data store, a set of display rules;
determining, based on the set of display rules, a second set of visual
characteristics; and
displaying the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in accordance
with the second set of visual characteristics.
[0056] According to some embodiments of the invention, a computer-
implemented
method for providing 3D selection game components is provided, the method
comprising:
receiving, by a processor, game data for storage in at least one persistent
data store;
displaying, using a display device: 1) a multi-faceted gaming surface
comprising at least
two gaming surface representations; and 2) a portion of the game data as an
initial set of 3D
game components on the at least two gaming surface representations of a multi-
faceted gaming
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surface in accordance with a set of game rules for a given game, each one of
the 3D game
components having a symbol associated thereto;
receiving signals, by the processor, indicating at least two selected sets of
3D game
components based on the initial set of 3D game components, each respective
selected set of
the at least two selected sets of 3D game components located on a respective
one of the at
least two gaming surface representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface;
displaying, using a display device, the at least two selected sets of 3D game
components;
determining for each of the at least two gaming surface representations, by
the
processor, a winning combination comprising one or more winning symbols; and
displaying, using a display device, one or more winning 3D game components
that
correspond to the one or more winning symbols.
[0057] According to some embodiments of the invention, each of the at
least two
gaming surface representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface comprises
at least two
selection games and the processor is further configured to determine a winning
combination for
each of the at least two selection games of each of the at least two gaming
surface
representations.
[0058] According to some embodiments of the invention, the multi-faceted
gaming
surface comprises at least four gaming surface representations, and each
gaming surface
representation comprises a face of the multi-faceted gaming surface.
[0059] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least two
selection
games on each of the at least two gaming surface representations is played
based on the initial
set of 3D game components and at least one of the at least two selected sets
of 3D game
components.
[0060] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further
displays the
at least two selected sets of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner
which visually
distinguishes the at least two selected sets of 3D game components from the
initial set of 3D
game components.
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[0061] According to some embodiments of the invention, displaying the at
least two
selected sets of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner comprises:
determining a first set of visual characteristics associated with the initial
set of 3D
game components;
retrieving, from the persistent data store, a set of display rules;
determining, based on the set of display rules, a second set of visual
characteristics; and
displaying the at least two selected sets of 3D game components in accordance
with the second set of visual characteristics.
[0062] Features of the systems, devices, and methods described herein may
be used in
various combinations, and may also be used for the system and computer-
readable storage
medium in various combinations.
[0063] In this specification, the term "game component" or game element
is intended to
mean any individual element which when grouped with other elements will form a
layout for a
game. For example, in a spinning reel game, each reel may be made up of one or
more game
components. Each game component may be represented by a symbol of a given
image,
number, shape, color, theme, etc. Like symbols are of a same image, number,
shape, color,
theme, etc. Other embodiments for game components will be readily understood
by those
skilled in the art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0064] Further features and advantages of embodiments described herein
may become
apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with
the appended
drawings, in which:
[0065] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an electronic gaming machine for
implementing
the gaming enhancements, according to some embodiments;
[0066] Fig. 2a is a block diagram of an electronic gaming machine linked
to a casino
host system, according to some embodiments;
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[0067] Fig. 2b is an exemplary online implementation of a computer system
and online
gaming system;
[0068] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment for a
computer-
implemented method for providing a three dimensional game in a gaming system;
[0069] Figure 4 is an exemplary embodiment of a three dimensional KENO
game at a
rest position according to some embodiments;
[0070] Figure 5 is another exemplary embodiment of a three dimensional
KENO game
according to some embodiments; and
[0071] Figures 6a and 6b show another example three dimensional KENO game
with
multi-faceted gaming surfaces.
[0072] It will be noted that throughout the figures, like features are
identified by like
reference numerals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0073] The embodiments of the systems and methods described herein may be
implemented in
hardware or software, or a combination of both. These embodiments may be
implemented in
computer programs executing on programmable computers, each computer including
at least
one processor, a data storage system (including volatile memory or non-
volatile memory or
other data storage elements or a combination thereof), and at least one
communication
interface. For example, and without limitation, the various programmable
computers may be a
server, gaming machine, network appliance, set-top box, embedded device,
computer
expansion module, personal computer, laptop, personal data assistant, cellular
telephone,
smartphone device, UMPC tablets and wireless hypermedia device or any other
computing
device capable of being configured to carry out the methods described herein.
[0074] Program code is applied to input data to perform the functions
described herein and to
generate output information. The output information is applied to one or more
output devices, in
known fashion. In some embodiments, the communication interface may be a
network
communication interface. In embodiments in which elements of the invention are
combined, the
communication interface may be a software communication interface, such as
those for inter-
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
process communication. In still other embodiments, there may be a combination
of
communication interfaces implemented as hardware, software, and combination
thereof.
[0075] Each program may be implemented in a high level procedural or object
oriented
programming or scripting language, or a combination thereof, to communicate
with a computer
system. However, alternatively the programs may be implemented in assembly or
machine
language, if desired. The language may be a compiled or interpreted language.
Each such
computer program may be stored on a storage media or a device (e.g., ROM,
magnetic disk,
optical disc), readable by a general or special purpose programmable computer,
for configuring
and operating the computer when the storage media or device is read by the
computer to
perform the procedures described herein. Embodiments of the system may also be
considered
to be implemented as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium,
configured with a
computer program, where the storage medium so configured causes a computer to
operate in a
specific and predefined manner to perform the functions described herein.
[0076] Furthermore, the systems and methods of the described embodiments are
capable of
being distributed in a computer program product including a physical, non-
transitory computer
readable medium that bears computer usable instructions for one or more
processors. The
medium may be provided in various forms, including one or more diskettes,
compact disks,
tapes, chips, magnetic and electronic storage media, volatile memory, non-
volatile memory and
the like. Non-transitory computer-readable media may include all computer-
readable media,
with the exception being a transitory, propagating signal. The term non-
transitory is not intended
to exclude computer readable media such as primary memory, volatile memory,
RAM and so
on, where the data stored thereon may only be temporarily stored. The computer
useable
instructions may also be in various forms, including compiled and non-compiled
code.
[0077] Throughout the following discussion, numerous references will be made
regarding
servers, services, interfaces, portals, platforms, or other systems formed
from computing
devices. It should be appreciated that the use of such terms is deemed to
represent one or
more computing devices having at least one processor configured to execute
software
instructions stored on a computer readable tangible, non-transitory medium.
For example, a
server can include one or more computers operating as a web server, database
server, or other
type of computer server in a manner to fulfill described roles,
responsibilities, or functions. One
should further appreciate the disclosed computer-based algorithms, processes,
methods, or
other types of instruction sets can be embodied as a computer program product
comprising a
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non-transitory, tangible computer readable media storing the instructions that
cause a processor
to execute the disclosed steps. One should appreciate that the systems and
methods described
herein may transform electronic signals of various data objects into three
dimensional
representations for display on a tangible screen configured for three
dimensional displays. One
should appreciate that the systems and methods described herein involve
interconnected
networks of hardware devices configured to receive data using receivers,
transmit data using
transmitters, and transform electronic data signals for various three
dimensional enhancements
using particularly configured processors, where the three dimensional
enhancements are for
subsequent display on three dimensional adapted display screens.
[0078] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the
inventive subject
matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive
elements, the
inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of
the disclosed
elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second
embodiment
comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also
considered to include
other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly
disclosed.
[0079] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term
"coupled to" is
intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are
coupled to each other
contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional
element is located
between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled
with" are used
synonymously.
[0080] The gaming enhancements described herein may be carried out using any
type of
computer, including portable devices, such as smart phones, that can access a
gaming site or a
portal (which may access a plurality of gaming sites) via the internet or
other communication
path (e.g., a LAN or WAN). Embodiments described herein can also be carried
out using an
electronic gaming machine (EGM) in various venues, such as a casino. One
example type of
EGM is described with respect to Fig. 1.
[0081] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an EGM 10 where the three-dimensional
enhancements
to game components may be provided. EGM 10 includes a display 12 that may be a
thin film
transistor (TFT) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube
(CRT), auto
stereoscopic three dimensional display. and LED display, an OLED display, or
any other type of
display. A second display 14 provides game data or other information in
addition to display 12.
17
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Display 14 may provide static information, such as an advertisement for the
game, the rules of
the game, pay tables, pay lines, or other information, or may even display the
main game or a
bonus game along with display 12. Alternatively, the area for display 14 may
be a display glass
for conveying information about the game. Display 12/14 may also include a
camera.
[0082] Display 12 or 14 may have a touch screen lamination that includes a
transparent grid of
conductors. Touching the screen may change the capacitance between the
conductors, and
thereby the X-Y location of the touch may be determined. The processor
associates this X-Y
location with a function to be performed. Such touch screens may be used for
slot machines.
There may be an upper and lower multi-touch screen in accordance with some
embodiments.
[0083] A coin slot 22 may accept coins or tokens in one or more denominations
to generate
credits within EGM 10 for playing games. An input slot 24 for an optical
reader and printer
receives machine readable printed tickets and outputs printed tickets for use
in cashless
gaming.
[0084] A coin tray 32 may receive coins or tokens from a hopper upon a win or
upon the player
cashing out. However, the gaming machine 10 may be a gaming terminal that does
not pay in
cash but only issues a printed ticket for cashing in elsewhere. Alternatively,
a stored value card
may be loaded with credits based on a win, or may enable the assignment of
credits to an
account associated with a computer system, which may be a computer network
connected
computer.
[0085] A card reader slot 34 may accept various types of cards, such as smart
cards, magnetic
strip cards, or other types of cards conveying machine readable information.
The card reader
reads the inserted card for player and credit information for cashless gaming.
The card reader
may read a magnetic code on a conventional player tracking card, where the
code uniquely
identifies the player to the host system. The code is cross-referenced by the
host system to any
data related to the player, and such data may affect the games offered to the
player by the
gaming terminal. The card reader may also include an optical reader and
printer for reading and
printing coded barcodes and other information on a paper ticket. A card may
also include
credentials that enable the host system to access one or more accounts
associated with a user.
The account may be debited based on wagers by a user and credited based on a
win.
Alternatively, an electronic device may couple (wired or wireless) to the EGM
10 to transfer
electronic data signals for player credits and the like. For example, near
field communication
18
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(NFC) may be used to couple to EGM 10 which may be configured with NFC enabled
hardware.
This is a non-limiting example of a communication technique.
[0086] A keypad 36 may accept player input, such as a personal identification
number (PIN) or
any other player information. A display 38 above keypad 36 displays a menu for
instructions and
other information and provides visual feedback of the keys pressed.
[0087] The keypad 36 may be an input device such as a touchscreen, or dynamic
digital button
panel, in accordance with some embodiments.
[0088] Player control buttons 39 may include any buttons or other controllers
needed for the
play of the particular game or games offered by EGM 10 including, for example,
a bet button, a
repeat bet button, a spin reels (or play) button, a maximum bet button, a cash-
out button, a
display pay lines button, a display payout tables button, select icon buttons,
and any other
suitable button. Buttons 39 may be replaced by a touch screen with virtual
buttons.
[0089] The EGM 10 may also include hardware configured to provide optical
motion tracking.
The optical motion tracking may include a body and head controller.
[0090] As described herein, EGM 10 may be configured to provide three
dimensional
enhancements to game components. The three dimensional enhancements may be
provided
dynamically as dynamic game content in response to electronic data signals
relating to player
input, game activity, player interactivity with display and EGM 10, and so on.
the EGM 10 may
include a display with multi-touch and auto stereoscopic three-dimensional
functionality,
including a camera, for example. The EGM 10 may also include several effects
and frame lights.
The three dimensional enhancements may be three dimensional variants of gaming
components. For example, the three dimensional variants may not be limited to
a three
dimensional version of the gaming components.
[0091] The EGM 10 may include an output device such as one or more speakers.
The speakers
may be located in various locations on the EGM 10 such as in a lower portion
or upper portion.
The EGM 10 may have a chair or seat portion and the speakers may be included
in the seat
portion to create a surround sound effect for the player. The seat portion may
allow for easy
upper body and head movement during play. Functions may be controllable via an
on screen
game menu. The EGM 10 is configurable to provide full control over all built-
in functionality
(lights, frame lights, sounds, and so on).
19
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[0092] The EGM 10 may also couple to a user's mobile device to provide a
tethering gaming
experience. That is, EGM 10 may be configured to establish a communications
link between a
mobile gaming device operated by a player and EGM 10. The mobile gaming device
may run a
remote gaming program to play games via EGM 10, and the EGM 10 may be
programmed to
carry out at game functions of pseudo-randomly determining a game outcome and
determining
an award to a player. The EGM 10 may receive player control signals from the
mobile gaming
device to initiate a game. The EGM 10 may carry out the game, including
determining a final
outcome of the game and any award for the outcome. The EGM 10 may transmit
signals to the
mobile gaming device identifying the final outcome of the first game and the
award. In this
configuration, a player may play games provided by the EGM 10 remotely using
their mobile
gaming device.
[0093] That is, a wireless hand-held device, such as a tablet, may be used to
remotely play
EGM 10. The EGM 10, for security and central monitoring/accounting purposes,
may perform all
the processing to deduct a bet from the remote player's stored bank of
credits, randomly select
a game outcome, determine the award to be paid to the player, and credit the
player's bank of
credits. The information processed by EMG 10 may be wirelessly communicated to
the tablet,
and the predetermined outcome may be displayed to the player (such as by
displaying stopped
reels). The tablet may function as a user interface and display.
[0094] The EGM 10 may also include a camera. The camera may be used for motion
tracking
of player, such as detecting player positions and movements, and generating
signals defining x,
y and z coordinates. A viewing object of the game may be illustrated as a
three-dimensional
enhancement coming towards the player. Another viewing object of the game may
be illustrated
as a three-dimensional enhancement moving away from the player. The players
head position
may be used as a view guide for the viewing camera during a three-dimensional
enhancement.
A player sitting directly in front of display 12 may see a different view than
a player moving
aside. The camera may also be used to detect occupancy of the machine.
[0095] The EGM 10 may also include a digital button panel. The digital button
panel may
include various elements such as for example, a touch display, animated
buttons, frame light,
and so on. The digital button panel may have different states, such as for
example, standard
play containing bet steps, bonus with feature layouts, point of sale, and so
on. The digital button
panel may include a slider bar for adjusting the three-dimensional panel. The
digital button
panel may include buttons for adjusting sounds and effects. The digital button
panel may
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
include buttons for betting and selecting bonus games. The digital button
panel may include a
game status display. The digital button panel may include animation. The
buttons of the digital
button panel may include a number of different states, such as pressable but
not activated,
pressed and active, inactive (not pressable), certain response or information
animation, and so
on. The EGM 10 may also include physical buttons.
[0096] The EGM 10 may include frame and effect lights. The lights may be
synchronized with
enhancements of the game. The EGM 10 may be configured to control color and
brightness of
lights. Additional custom animations (color cycle, blinking, etc.) may also be
configured by the
EGM 10. The customer animations may be triggered by certain gaming events.
[0097] Fig. 2a is a block diagram of EGM 10 linked to the casino's host system
41. The EGM 10
may use conventional hardware. Fig. 2b illustrates a possible online
implementation of a
computer system and online gaming device in accordance with the present gaming
enhancements. For example, a server computer 34 may be configured to enable
online gaming
in accordance with embodiments described herein. One or more users may use a
computing
device 30 that is configured to connect to the Internet 32 (or other network),
and via the Internet
32 to the server computer 34 in order to access the functionality described in
this disclosure.
[0098] A communications board 42 may contain conventional circuitry for
coupling the EGM 10
to a local area network (LAN) or other type of network using any suitable
protocol, such as the
G2S protocols. Internet protocols are typically used for such communication
under the G2S
standard, incorporated herein by reference. The communications board 42
transmits using a
wireless transmitter, or it may be directly connected to a network running
throughout the casino
floor. The communications board 42 basically sets up a communication link with
a master
controller and buffers data between the network and the game controller board
44. The
communications board 42 may also communicate with a network server, such as in
accordance
with the G2S standard, for exchanging information to carry out embodiments
described herein.
[0099] The game controller board 44 contains memory and a processor for
carrying out
programs stored in the memory and for providing the information requested by
the network. The
game controller board 44 primarily carries out the game routines.
[00100]
Peripheral devices/boards communicate with the game controller board 44 via a
bus 46 using, for example, an RS-232 interface. Such peripherals may include a
bill validator
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CA 02853016 2014-05-30
47, a coin detector 48, a smart card reader or other type of credit card
reader 49, and player
control inputs 50 (such as buttons or a touch screen).
[00101] The game controller board 44 also controls one or more devices
that produce the
game output including audio and video output associated with a particular game
that is
presented to the user. For example audio board 51 converts coded signals into
analog signals
for driving speakers. A display controller 52, which typically requires a high
data transfer rate,
converts coded signals to pixel signals for the display 53. Display controller
52 and audio board
51 may be directly connected to parallel ports on the game controller board
44. The electronics
on the various boards may be combined onto a single board.
[00102] Computing device 30 may be particularly configured with hardware
and software
to interact with gaming machine 10 or gaming server 34 via network 32 to
implement gaming
functionality and render three dimensional enhancements, as described herein.
For simplicity
only one computing device 30 is shown but system may include one or more
computing devices
30 operable by users to access remote network resources. Computing device 30
may be
implemented using one or more processors and one or more data storage devices
configured
with database(s) or file system(s), or using multiple devices or groups of
storage devices
distributed over a wide geographic area and connected via a network (which may
be referred to
as "cloud computing").
[00103] Computing device 30 may reside on any networked computing device,
such as a
personal computer, workstation, server, portable computer, mobile device,
personal digital
assistant, laptop, tablet, smart phone, WAP phone, an interactive television,
video display
terminals, gaming consoles, electronic reading device, and portable electronic
devices or a
combination of these. As described herein, a computing device 30 may couple to
EGM 10 to
remotely play games via EGM 10. Further, in some configurations computing
device 30 may
operate as EGM 10, or components thereof.
[00104] Computing device 30 may include any type of processor, such as,
for example,
any type of general-purpose microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital
signal processing
(DSP) processor, an integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array
(FPGA), a
reconfigurable processor, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), or any
combination
thereof. Computing device 30 may include any type of computer memory that is
located either
internally or externally such as, for example, random-access memory (RAM),
read-only memory
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(ROM), compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), electro-optical memory, magneto-
optical
memory, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically-
erasable
programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), Ferroelectric RAM (FRAM) or the like.
[00105] Computing device 30 may include one or more input devices, such as
a
keyboard, mouse, camera, touch screen, sensors, and a microphone, and may also
include one
or more output devices such as a display screen (with three dimensional
capabilities) and a
speaker. Computing device 30 has a network interface in order to communicate
with other
components, to access and connect to network resources, to serve an
application and other
applications, and perform other computing applications by connecting to a
network (or multiple
networks) capable of carrying data including the Internet, Ethernet, plain old
telephone service
(POTS) line, public switch telephone network (PSTN), integrated services
digital network
(ISDN), digital subscriber line (DSL), coaxial cable, fiber optics, satellite,
mobile, wireless (e.g.
Wi-Fi, WiMA)(), SS7 signaling network, fixed line, local area network, wide
area network, and
others, including any combination of these. Computing device 30 is operable to
register and
authenticate users (using a login, unique identifier, and password for
example) prior to providing
access to applications, a local network, network resources, other networks and
network security
devices. Computing device 30 may serve one user or multiple users.
[00106] Although not shown, computing device 30 may comprise displays 12,
14 as well
to display various game components to one or more users. A computing device 30
may couple
to EGM 10 to remotely play games via EGM 10. Further, in some configurations
computing
device 30 may operate as EGM 10, or components thereof.
[00107] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment for a
computer-
implemented method for providing a three dimensional game in a gaming system
such as that
illustrated in figures 1, 2a, and 2b.
[00108] In one embodiment of the invention, at 302, EGM 10 can cause a
display device
12, 14 to display game data as a first set of three dimensional (3D) game
components in a 3D
setting or environment, in accordance with a set of game rules for a given
game. As shown in
Figs. 4, 5, 6a and 6b, the 3D game components may be uniformly sized balls
410, 510 in a
KENO game, or uniformly sized cubes or other elements in a bigger multi-
faceted gaming
surface or cube 600, 610. The first set of 3D game components (e.g. cubes or
balls numbered
23
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
from 1 to 49) as set by EGM 10 can serve as a set of game components from
which the player
can choose to form selected set(s) of game components.
[00109] In some embodiments, each of the game component in the first set
of 3D game
components may be printed with a numeric value, consecutively numbered from 1
to N, where
N is the total number of the first set of 3D game components. In some other
embodiments, each
of the game component in the first set of 3D game components may be printed
with a symbol
from a predetermined set of N symbols.
[00110] The display device 12, 14 may display the 3D game components in a
three-
dimensional configuration. That is, display device 12, 14 may display a three-
dimensional
enhancement by expanding a first axis X and second axis Y in a third
dimensional axis Z. The
3D configuration results in a different display of electronic data signals to
illustrate the game
components three-dimensionally.
[00111] At 304, EGM 10 can receive electronic signals from input means
such as player
control inputs 50 indicating a number of player's selections of 3D game
components that are
from the first set of 3D game components. The total number of 3D game
components selected
by the player may be predetermined to be a certain threshold or fixed value,
such as 20 or 30
for example.
[00112] At 306, based on the selected set of 3D game components from the
player, EGM
can further cause displays 12, 14 to show the selected set of 3D game
components in a
distinguishing manner such that the selected set of 3D game components stand
out to the
player against the rest of the (unselected) game components in the background.
In one
embodiment, the selected 3D game components may be pushed further to the
screen along a Z
axis, so that the player can perceive the selected 3D game components as being
closer to
himself.
[00113] There can be a variety of ways or methods to display the selected
set of 3D
game components in a distinguishing manner. For example, one or more 3D game
components
in the first set of the 3D game components may be displayed by displays 12, 14
with a first set
of visual characteristics such as shape, colour, depth level, spatial
frequency, blackness level,
brightness level, dynamic range, transfer function, duty cycle, color gamut,
and so on. There
may be stored in a persistent data store a set of display rules for
determining one or more
additional sets of visual characteristics that can differentiate or
distinguish the selected set of 3D
24
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
game components, when displayed with the additional set of visual
characteristics, from the first
set of 3D game components shown with the first set of visual characteristics.
[00114] Such visual characteristics may be achieved in an autostereoscopic
manner in
that no headgear or glasses on the part of the player is required. For
example, lenticular lens,
parallax barrier, volumetric display, holographic and light field displays may
be used.
[00115] In another embodiment of the invention, such visual
characteristics may be
achieved with the aids of headgear or glasses on the part of the player.
[00116] In one embodiment of the invention, the set of display rules may
vary from game
to game, or from 3D game component to 3D game component. For example, the
display rules
may be such that once a 3D game component is selected, it should be displayed
more with a
3D halo effect. In another example, the display rules may be such that the
first five or ten
selected 3D game components are moved to an area that is front and centre in
the displays 12,
14. In yet another example, the display rules may be such that all of the
selected 3D game
components are pushed towards a screen of displays 12, 14 along an invisible Z
axis, but that
each of the selected 3D game component occupies a different position along the
Z axis.
[00117] Digital image processing algorithms or techniques such as
compression, image
analysis, tomographic reconstruction, pattern recognition, feature extraction
and so on may be
utilized in displaying the first or selected set of 3D game components in
accordance with the first
or additional set of visual characteristics.
[00118] At 308, EGM 10 is operable to determine, at random, a winning
combination or
pattern involving a series of elements, symbols or numbers from the first set
of 3D game
components. The number of winning elements, symbols or numbers in a winning
pattern may
vary from game to game. In one embodiments, the number of winning elements,
symbols or
numbers can correspond to the number of game components in the selected set of
3D game
components in step 304.
[00119] At 310, EGM 10 is configured to determine matched game components
or
winning 3D game component in a selected set of the 3D game components that
correspond to
(or match) the one or more elements, symbols or numbers in the winning
combination, and to
further display the matched 3D game components in the selected set in a
distinguishing
manner. In another embodiment, EGM 10 can be configured to display all winning
3D game
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
components, including the ones from the first or initial set of the 3D game
components, that
correspond to the one or more symbols in the winning combination.
[00120] Optionally, EGM 10 can further determine a prize associated with
the matched
3D game components and award the player accordingly.
[00121] Figure 4 is an exemplary embodiment of a three dimensional KENO
game 400 at
a rest position according to some embodiments.
[00122] As shown, a total of eighty (80) numbered balls (i.e., a first set
of 3D game
elements 410) are visible on an invisible X-Y-Z grid. For example, if there
are 80 3D game
components in the first set, then each may be numbered with a value in a
consecutive set {1, 2,
3... 80}, without duplicating any of the numbers in the set. Each printed
number, element or
symbol on each 3D game component may be referred to as a symbol associated
with the 3D
game component throughout this disclosure.
[00123] The total number of 3D game components may vary from game to game
and is
not limited to 80 (e.g. it may be 70 or 90). As described above, a player can
select one or more
3D game components (balls) from the first set, in accordance with a
predetermined threshold
(e.g. can select 10, 20 or 30 out of 80 balls), and then hit the start button,
at which time some or
all the balls 410 can begin bouncing on the invisible vertical Y axis, for
example each at a
different frequency or speed. The player can press stop at any time, at which
time all the balls or
3D game components can freeze or "hang" in a froze position. At the froze
position, any balls
which are above a predetermined height threshold 415, are in a hit zone 420
and thus
considered "hits" or "matches"; any balls that are below the height threshold
415 are in a non-
hit-zone 430 and are considered misses.
[00124] EGM 10 can then be configured to determine a winning pattern based
on the hits
or matches in the hit zone 420 in accordance with a set of game rules. For
example, all the hits
or matches may become part of a winning combination or pattern.
[00125] In another embodiment, once the player hits the start button, some
or all of the
balls 410 can begin moving in a random direction at a different frequency or
speed. At all times,
the player can visually keep track of the selected set of game components as
the selected set of
game component continue to be displayed in a distinguishing manner that is
different from the
26
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
non-selected 3D game components. For example, the selected set of game
components may
be displayed in a different colour, or may be in a different shape (e.g. cubes
instead of balls).
[00126] In yet another embodiment, the height threshold 415 may be
adjusted from game
to game, or even during a game as the balls are bouncing.
[00127] Referring now to Figure 5, which is another exemplary embodiment
of a three
dimensional KENO game according to some embodiments.
[00128] As shown in Fig. 5, a KENO grid comprising a plurality of first
set of balls or 3D
game components in a three dimensional sphere is shown by display 12, 14. Each
of the 3D
game components 510 may be numbered and printed with a corresponding number
accordingly. For example, if there are 100 3D game components in the first
set, then each may
be numbered with a value in a consecutive set {1, 2, 3... 100}, without
duplicating any of the
numbers in the set.
[00129] A player may, using input control 50 or swiping motions, rotate
the 3D sphere in
any desired direction to view the numbers printed on the balls or 3D game
elements. The player
may further make selections of 3D game components in the first set via any
suitable means.
The player may choose up to a predetermined number of selected set of 3D game
components
(e.g. 10, 20 or 30, up to the total number of the first set of 3D game
components).
[00130] Referring back to step 306, the displays 12, 14 may display the
selected set of
3D game components in an distinguishing manner, such as displaying them in a
different colour,
and/or pushing the selected 3D game components further away from the centre of
the 3D
sphere and thus more prominently displayed than the unselected 3D game
components.
[00131] The EGM 10 can determine, at random, a winning combination or
pattern via a
computer-implemented draw. Each winning combination may comprise a plurality
of numbers,
symbols or elements, or a mix of two or more of numbers, symbols or elements.
With each
drawn number or symbol, the EGM 10 can be configured to determine if there is
any match
between a selected 3D game component and the drawn number or symbol, and if
there is, the
EGM 100 may cause displays 12, 14 to "pull" the matched 3D game component
further away
from the center of the 3D sphere, thereby pushing the matched 3D game
component closer to
the screen or player when the 3D sphere rotates the matched 3D game component
into view. In
27
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
contrast, any missed selected 3D game component can be pushed towards the
center of the 3D
sphere, which can appear to be vanishing out of sight.
[00132] Alternatively or concurrently, the selected 3D game components may
be
manipulated to change shape if and when matched with a drawn number or symbol.
[00133] Lastly, a prize may be awarded to the player based on the matched
3D game
components.
[00134] It is worth noting that even though the 3D game component 510 in
this
embodiment are shown to take the shape of a ball, it may also be of any other
shape such as a
cube, a pyramid, and so on.
[00135] Referring now to Figures 6a and 6b, which show another example of
three
dimensional KENO game with multi-faceted gaming surfaces. As described below,
Figs. 6a and
6b also illustrate an example of providing multiple games on multi-faceted
gaming surfaces to
be played simultaneously.
[00136] The gaming surface may be shown as a three-dimensional game
enhancement
in this example. That is, the three-dimensional game enhancement may be a
multi-faceted
gaming surface. FIG. 6a shows two different gaming surface representations
602, 604, each
being a facet or "face" of a cube-shaped multi-faceted gaming surface 600,
610. The cube-
shaped multi-faceted gaming surface 600, 610 may rotate or spin (either by
default or by user
control) to reveal more of a particular gaming surface representation 602, 604
or different
gaming surfaces that may currently be hidden from view. For example, the
second illustration of
multi-faceted cube 600 on the right in Fig. 6a shows more of one gaming
surface 604.
[00137] FIG. 6b also shows two different gaming surfaces 606, 608 on each
visible facet
of a multi-faceted gaming surface. The multi-faceted gaming surface may rotate
or spin to
reveal more of a particular gaming surface representation 606, 608 or
different gaming surface
representations that may currently be hidden from view. For example, the
second illustration of
multi-faceted cube 610 on the right in Fig. 6b shows more of one gaming
surface representation
608. A cube is an illustrative example and different shapes and configurations
may be used for
the multi-faceted gaming surface.
30 Multi-Game Mode
28
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[00138] The respective faces of the multi-faceted game surface may
correspond to
respective gaming surface representations, with at least one selection game on
each respective
gaming surface representation. The games may be different games of the same or
different
game type(s). For example, any four-card KENO selection game, or multi-play
game where the
player is playing two or more games at once may be displayed on each
respective gaming
surface representation of a cube-shaped multi-faceted gaming surface, instead
of beside each
other, to enhance 3D effects, to maximize space and to pique player interests.
For example, as
shown in Figs. 6a and 6b, a cube-shaped multi-faceted gaming surface 600, 610
may each
contain at least four gaming surface representations 602, 604, 606, 608. Each
of the four
gaming surface representations may constitute a KENO game or a selection game.
The player
is thus able to play at least four games simultaneously or near
simultaneously, with each
respective game on a respective gaming surface representation 602, 604, 606,
608 of the cube-
shaped multi-faceted gaming surface 600, 610. The player may swipe the cube,
via touching
the display or via a button on the gaming machine, in any direction to change
the gaming
surface and thus the game card. In another example, buttons on screen may be
selected to
bypass the swipe control, but the rotation may still be displayed on the
surface of a cube.
[00139] In one embodiment of the invention, EGM 10 may cause a display
device 12, 14
to display game data as an initial set of three-dimensional (3D) game
components in a 3D
setting or environment, in accordance with a set of game rules for a given
game. As shown in
Figs. 6a and 6b, the 3D game components may be uniformly sized cubes or other
elements in a
bigger multi-faceted gaming surface or cube 600, 610. The initial set of 3D
game components
(e.g. cubes or balls numbered from 1 to 100) can serve as a set of game
components from
which the player can choose to form selected set(s) of game components. There
may be an
initial set of 3D game components for all selections games available on the
multi-faceted
gaming surface, or alternatively, there may be an initial set of 3D game
components for each of
the selection games available on the multi-faceted gaming surface.
[00140] A player can start playing multiple games on a cube-shaped multi-
faceted
gaming surface 600, 610 by making selections of a first selected set of 3D
game components
based on the initial set per the game rules, as described above, on a first
gaming surface
representation of the cube-shaped multi-faceted gaming surface 600, 610. The
total number of
3D game components selected by the player may be predetermined to be a certain
threshold or
fixed value, such as 20 or 30 for example. The total number of 3D game
components selected
29
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
may also be limited by the number of game components on the first surface of
the cube-shaped
multi-faceted gaming surface 600, 610.
[00141] The player may proceed to pick a second selected set of 3D game
components
on a second gaming surface representation of the multi-faceted gaming surface.
Optionally the
player may cause the EGM 10 to swipe the multi-faceted gaming surface 600, 610
so that a
gaming surface representation on which the player intends to play may be
turned more fully into
view. The player may do this via a touch screen, a hand gesture in the air, or
a control button or
control means on the EGM 10.
[00142] The player may, at his or her option, further make or pick a third
and/or fourth
selected set of 3D game components based on the initial set of game components
displayed on
the screen. Similarly to the first two selected sets, the third (and fourth if
applicable) selected
set of 3D game components can each be on a different gaming surface
representation of the
multi-faceted game surface. In the event that the player chooses not to pick a
second, third or
fourth selected set of 3D game components, the EGM 10 may be instructed by a
set of pre-
determined machine-input instructions to pick the rest of the selected set(s)
of 3D game
components, as to enable simultaneously playing of all available games on all
gaming surface
representations of the multi-faceted gaming surface. The machine-input
instructions may pick
the game components in a random manner; concurrently or alternatively, the
machine-input
instructions may pick the game components per a default setting that may be
set by system
administrator. For example, a player may only pick two selected sets of 3D
game components
on a first and second gaming surface representations, and let EGM 10 pick the
other two
selected sets of 3D game components on the third and fourth gaming surface
representations.
[00143] Together the first, second, third.. (and so on) selected sets of
the 3D game
components may be referred to as the at least two selected sets of 3D game
components,
whether picked by the player or machine instructions.
[00144] Based on the at least two or more selected sets of 3D game
components from
the player, EGM 10 can further cause displays 12, 14 to show the at least two
or more selected
sets of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner such that the at least
two or more
selected sets of 3D game components visually stand out to the player against
the rest of the
(unselected) game components in the background.
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
[00145] There can be a variety of ways or methods to display the at least
two or more
selected sets of 3D game components in a distinguishing manner. For example,
one or more
3D game components in the initial set of the 30 game components may be
displayed by
displays 12, 14 with a first set of visual characteristics such as shape,
colour, depth level, spatial
frequency, blackness level, brightness level, dynamic range, transfer
function, duty cycle, color
gamut, and so on. There may be stored in a persistent data store a set of
display rules for
determining one or more additional sets of visual characteristics that can
differentiate or
distinguish the at least two selected sets of 3D game components, when
displayed with the
additional set of visual characteristics, from the initial set of 3D game
components shown with
the first set of visual characteristics.
[00146] Such visual characteristics may be achieved in an autostereoscopic
manner in
that no headgear or glasses on the part of the player is required. For
example, lenticular lens,
parallax barrier, volumetric display, holographic and light field displays may
be used.
[00147] In another embodiment of the invention, such visual
characteristics may be
achieved with the aids of headgear or glasses on the part of the player.
[00148] In one embodiment of the invention, the set of display rules may
vary from game
to game, or from a first selected set of 3D game component to a second
selected set of 3D
game component in the at least two selected set(s) of game components. For
example, the
display rules may be such that once a 3D game component is selected, it should
be displayed
more with a 3D halo effect. In another example, the display rules may be such
that the first five
or ten selected 3D game components are moved to an area that is front and
centre in the
displays 12, 14. In yet another example, the display rules may be such that
all of the selected
30 game components are pushed towards a screen of displays 12, 14 along an
invisible Z axis,
but that each of the selected 3D game component occupies a different position
along the Z axis.
[00149] Digital image processing algorithms or techniques such as
compression, image
analysis, tomographic reconstruction, pattern recognition, feature extraction
and so on may be
utilized in displaying the first or selected set of 3D game components in
accordance with the first
or additional set of visual characteristics.
[00150] Next, EGM 10 is operable to determine, for each selection game on
each gaming
surface representation of the multi-faceted gaming surface, at random, a
winning combination or
pattern involving a series of elements, symbols or numbers from the initial
set of 30 game
31
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
components. The number of winning elements, symbols or numbers in a winning
pattern may
vary from game to game. In one embodiment, the number of winning elements,
symbols or
numbers can correspond to the number of game components in each of the at
least wto
selected set(s) of 30 game components.
[00151] Consequently, EGM 10 can be configured to determine matched game
components or winning 3D game components, in one or more of the at least two
selected sets
of the 3D game components, that correspond to (or match) the one or more
elements, symbols
or numbers in the winning combination, and to further display the winning 3D
game components
in the selected sets in a distinguishing manner. In another embodiment, EGM 10
can be
configured to display all winning 3D game components, including those from the
initial set of the
3D game components but are not in the at least two selected sets of 3D game
components, that
correspond to the one or more symbols in the winning combination.
[00152] Optionally, EGM 10 can further determine a prize associated with
the matched or
winning 3D game components and award the player accordingly.
[00153] In another embodiment of the invention, each of the gaming surface
representations may comprise two or more selection games (e.g., four games on
each gaming
surface representation). For instance, for a cube-shaped multi-faceted gaming
surface with four
gaming surface representations, each gaming surface representation comprising
four selection
games each, there may be a total of 16 games available for simultaneous
playing or near-
simultaneous playing.
[00154] Similar to the case where only one selection game is available on
each gaming
surface representation, the player may, via touch screen, hand gesture, or
control buttons on
the EGM 10, cause the multi-faceted gaming surface to rotate, spin or
otherwise move so that
different sides or faces of the multi-faceted gaming surface can turn into
view. In addition, the
player may pick selected 3D game components as he or she sees fit, up to a
certain threshold
of total number of selected 3D game components per selection game per gaming
surface
representation. In the event the player leaves any selected set of 3D game
components
unfulfilled or the number of selected 3D game components is under the
threshold of total
number of selected 3D game components per game, the EGM10 can send machine-
input
instructions to automatically pick the rest of the selected 3D game
components, across different
games and if necessarily across different gaming surface representations, in
order to fulfill all
32
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
the selected sets of 3D game components for each of the games on the multi-
faceted gaming
surface.
[00155] In another embodiment of the invention, there may be different
numbers of
games on each respective gaming surface representations of a multi-faceted
gaming surface.
For example, a first gaming surface representation may contain two games,
while a second
gaming surface representation may contain three games, and a third gaming
surface
representation may contain just one game. The number of games may be pre-
determined by
games rules or it may be altered by system administrator or any other suitable
means.
[00156] In another embodiment of the invention, the 3D multi-faceted
surface of the
KENO game as illustrated in Figs. 6a and 6b can cause and enable selected 3D
game
components (e.g. selected smaller cubes) to change shape and/or spin in its
position in the
bigger cube. Moreover, if and when any player- selected 3D game components is
matched with
a drawn number or symbol, the matched 3D game component may further be zoomed
in (i.e.,
enlarged with respect to the rest of the game components) and morph into a
multi-faceted
KENO game itself. Optionally, a bonus round may be offered when a special 3D
game
component has been drawn and matched.
[00157] In accordance with some embodiments, a game component on a matrix
layered
behind a top matrix (or embedded therein) may have a three-dimensional
structure. Instead of a
reel spin, the action event may be a rotation of the three-dimensional
structure to reveal a game
symbol. That is, a game component on a matrix may be a multi-facet gaming
component.
Additional symbols may be provided on one or more of the facets of the three-
dimensional
structure. The additional symbols may be used in various ways. For example, in
a spinning reel
game, as each game component is spun in a single direction, such as about the
x axis, the
multi-facet gaming component may be spun about multiple axes, such as the y
axis and/or the x
axis, thus resulting in more possibilities for the spinning gaming component.
Alternatively,
various events in the game, such as a particular winning combination or
reaching a threshold of
points, may activate the trigger symbol and allow the player to freely rotate
the multi-faceted
gaming component in a desired direction, such that the symbol on the facet
that is rotated to the
front may be used for a winning combination. The symbols on the facets other
than the front
may be displayed to the player or hidden from view. Various events in the game
may allow
hidden facets to be selectively shown to the player. Other scenarios are also
possible. While the
33
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
multi-faceted three-dimensional structure in this example can be a cube, other
geometrical
shapes are also possible, such as a cylinder, an octagon, and many others.
[00158] In accordance with embodiments described herein, a game component
may be
an enhanced three-dimensional multi-faceted game component. The multi-faceted
game
components may be arranged in a three-dimensional configuration. Each multi-
faceted game
component may be associated with a gaming symbol. The gaming symbol may be
identifiable,
visible and displayed on multiple faces of each multi-faceted game component.
When the multi-
faceted game components are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration one
or more of the
faces may be covered by other game components or hidden from a particular view
or angle,
while one or more of the faces may still be visible at the particular view or
angle. The game
symbol for each multi-faceted game component may still be identifiable as it
may still be shown
on the visible face(s). Three-dimensional enhancements may involve rotations
of multi-faceted
game components and gaming surfaces on multiple axes rotation.
[00159] The embodiments described herein are implemented by physical
computer
hardware embodiments. The embodiments described herein provide useful physical
machines
and particularly configured computer hardware arrangements of computing
devices, servers,
electronic gaming terminals, processors, memory, networks, for example. The
embodiments
described herein, for example, is directed to computer apparatuses, and
methods implemented
by computers through the processing of electronic data signals.
[00160] The embodiments described herein involve computing devices,
servers,
electronic gaming terminals, receivers, transmitters, processors, memory,
display, networks
particularly configured to implement various acts. The embodiments described
herein are
directed to electronic machines adapted for processing and transforming
electromagnetic
signals which represent various types of information. The embodiments
described herein
pervasively and integrally relate to machines, and their uses; and the
embodiments described
herein have no meaning or practical applicability outside their use with
computer hardware,
machines, a various hardware components.
[00161] Substituting the computing devices, servers, electronic gaming
terminals,
receivers, transmitters, processors, memory, display, networks particularly
configured to
implement various acts for non-physical hardware, using mental steps for
example, may
substantially affect the way the embodiments work.
34
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
[00162] Such computer hardware limitations are clearly essential elements
of the
embodiments described herein, and they cannot be omitted or substituted for
mental means
without having a material effect on the operation and structure of the
embodiments described
herein. The computer hardware is essential to the embodiments described herein
and is not
merely used to perform steps expeditiously and in an efficient manner.
[00163] While illustrated in the block diagrams as groups of discrete
components
communicating with each other via distinct electrical data signal connections,
the present
embodiments are provided by a combination of hardware and software components,
with some
components being implemented by a given function or operation of a hardware or
software
system, and many of the data paths illustrated being implemented by data
communication within
a computer application or operating system. The structure illustrated is thus
provided for
efficiency of teaching example embodiments. The hardware components are
configured to
provide practical applications of innovative computerized gaming features. The
hardware
components are configured to provide physical transformations by, for example,
transforming
the display on gaming screen with three dimensional enhancements.
[00164] The concept of enhanced game components may be applied to game
mechanics
in multiple ways. For example, Wild cards may be placed one on top of each
other to create a
depth showing multiple wilds in one spot resulting in awarding of the same
line multiple times.
Wilds may have a multiplier attached to each of the layers in the depth, for
example, the front
one is worth lx, the second level is worth 2x, the third level is worth 3x,
etc. Surrounding Wilds
may be used by offering a layer above a regular reel set that would allow for
wilds to be created
when reels stop (i.e. any symbol landing would have the opportunity to become
wild). This
allows for depth to the surrounding wilds. For games that may have a match
functionality, it
would allow for chunks of wilds and symbols to pay. In some embodiments, Wilds
may stay in
place until it is awarded. This would allow for the wild to grow in size
allowing for either:
multiplier attached to the wild; additional wilds stacking up and growing on
the spot; or
physically growing outwards on the Z axis onscreen.
[00165] Scatters may be used in a stacked configuration as well. Scatters
may be placed
on top of each other to create a depth showing multiple scatters in one spot,
resulting in an
award for a collective number of scatters. Scatters may also have a multiplier
attached to each
of the layers in the depth, for example, the front one is worth lx, the second
level is worth 2x,
the third level is worth 3x, etc.
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
[00166] The third dimension provided by the enhanced game components may
act as a
portal or hole into the game (e.g. base game, secondary game, bonus game),
given access to a
bonus round or an additional win category. Symbols may appear with multiple
layers and
players may collect symbols and place them one on top of another in a single
space. Three-
dimensional stacks may be formed by allowing for symbols to be stacked not
just on the vertical
but also in the third (z) axis, allowing for depth to the normally viewed
stacked symbol.
[00167] The game component enhancements allow for chunks of symbols that
are
spanning the vertical space of the reel to also have a back expansion area
that causes a 'block'
effect. It allows for chunks of symbols that are spanning the horizontal space
of the reel to also
have a back expansion area that causes a 'block' effect. It may also allow for
depth on certain
reels to create a new pattern of the physical game grid dimension.
[00168] Triggers may be modified using the game component enhancements.
Such
triggers may include, for example, consecutive triggers (on or outside of a
reel), scatter, and
trigger tiles. Triggers may lead to various events, such as additional
credits, additional payouts,
secondary games, bonus rounds, etc. Trigger tiles may be placed on any reel
shape/dimension
as desired, as a triggering mechanism. Multiple layers could be applied to
this triggering
mechanism as well. Pay ways may also be modified, as the enhancements allow
for multiple
games to be played in the same space. Shapes of lines wins may be collected to
create a full
screen pattern of extra prizes. Different layers with different line sets may
be played all at once.
[00169] The game enhancements may be applied to multiple environments,
such as
KENO, 3D game grids, Player User Interfaces (PUI), Greenball (as described in
United States
Application No. 13/631,129, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by
reference), and
many others. For KENO, multiple balls may be placed on a same number. One
screen may be
provided with layered effects. For 3D game grids, a 'cube' effect may be
created, where the
player can interact with the cube to 'spin' it to reveal an additional bonus
prize. The
enhancement offers a position to expand outwards to create a multiple symbol
container. It also
offers multi-levels, different matrices, games that become available during
bonus rounds as
special features activate the exterior, or multiple games to be wagered upon.
Multi-facet game
boards (i.e. with a matrix on different angles) are also possible.
[00170] Bonus types may also be enhanced via the game component
enhancements. For
example, multiple free games may be played in a layered style. This allows for
symbols that
36
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
land one in front of another that match to create some sort of super win/super
symbol that spans
in depth and possibly in height, if synchronized reels are used. In a picking
screen for picking a
prize, the player may grab and drag the 3D object and reposition it on the
screen. Progressive
posts may get physically larger and expand outwards to show the player that
they are getting
closer to being awarded, and/or larger in value.
[00171] The user interfaces, computer implemented methods, and computer
system
components described may be used in connection with a variety of different
games that are
pattern games or that include pattern game components.
[00172] Various functions or features described in this disclosure may be
implemented as
part of different gaming systems. For example:
(A) The winning enhancements may be implemented as part of a game to system
(G2S)
system.
(B) As previously stated, the user interfaces, computer implemented methods,
and computer
system components described herein may be used by an EGM.
(C) In the event the game is a lottery game, the game computer may be an in-
store gaming
system or a gaming kiosk. For lottery games including the enhancements to the
game
components, the host system may be controlled by a government agency.
[00173] As described herein, a third dimension may be provided by the
enhanced game
components. Three dimensional enhancements may be provided as a primary game
(or base
game), secondary game or a bonus game in some embodiments. Motion tracking
data for the
player received via camera may be used to update and modify the three
dimensional
enhancements, for example. Head and body movements of the player may control
aspects of
the game.
[00174] In some example embodiments, the number of bonus choices may be
proportional to the size of the bet, or average bet. The number of features
may also be
proportional to the size of the bet, or average bet.
[00175] Three dimensional enhancements may be provided as dynamic content,
where
bonus selection and other gaming features may display differently from one
trigger to the next.
37
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
The three dimensional enhancements provide variety in primary and bonus game
types to
appeal to a broad player demographic.
[00176] A bonus game may include progressive levels and may be of a
different game
type than the primary game, including new symbols and rules. There may also be
hidden
features within the game.
[00177] The game may be a tile based game where different lines shapes of
corresponding tiles may be associated with different winning amounts for the
game.
[00178] Three dimensional enhancements may be used for various game
features. For
example, there may be a three dimensional enhancement for a trigger symbol, a
base game, a
tension spin, a large or medium win, a bonus game, a bonus game choice entry,
help
functionality, introduction to game, and so on.
[00179] An example flow for a game with three dimensional enhancements may
include a
base game with bonus or hidden features. There may be a trigger within the
base game to
launch a bonus selection game level where the player can select a bonus game
from multiple
choices. There may be a short description for each bonus game. The amount of
bet or average
bet within the base game may be proportional to the number of bonus game
choices. For
example, a higher bet may increase the number of bonus games to select from.
The bonus
games may be different types of games. The base game may also be a different
type of game.
[00180] The game may be played on a standalone video gaming machine, a
gaming
console, on a general purpose computer connected to the Internet, on a smart
phone, or using
any other type of gaming device. The video gaming system may include
multiplayer gaming
features.
[00181] The game may be played on a social media platform, such as
FacebookTM. The
video gaming computer system may also connect to a one or more social media
platforms, for
example to include social features. For example, the video gaming computer
system may
enable the posting of results as part of social feeds (e.g. posting to
TwitterTm). In some
applications, no monetary award is granted for wins, such as in some on-line
games. For
playing on social media platforms, non-monetary credits may be used for bets
and an award
may comprise similar non-monetary credits that can be used for further play or
to have access
38
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
to bonus features of a game. All processing may be performed remotely, such as
by a server,
while a player interface (computer, smart phone, etc.) displays the game
interface to the player.
[00182] The functionality described herein may also be accessed as an
Internet service,
for example by accessing the functions or features described from any manner
of computer
device, by the computer device accessing a server computer, a server farm or
cloud service
configured to implement said functions or features.
[00183] The above-described embodiments can be implemented in any of
numerous
ways. For example, the embodiments may be implemented using hardware, software
or a
combination thereof. When implemented in software, the software code can be
executed on any
suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single
computer or
distributed among multiple computers. Such processors may be implemented as
integrated
circuits, with one or more processors in an integrated circuit component. A
processor may be
implemented using circuitry in any suitable format.
[00184] Further, it should be appreciated that a computer may be embodied
in any of a
number of forms, such as a rack-mounted computer, a desktop computer, a laptop
computer, or
a tablet computer. Additionally, a computer may be embedded in a device not
generally
regarded as a computer but with suitable processing capabilities, including an
EGM, A Web TV,
a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a smart phone, a tablet or any other
suitable portable or
fixed electronic device.
[00185] Also, a computer may have one or more input and output devices.
These devices
can be used, among other things, to present a user interface. Examples of
output devices that
can be used to provide a user interface include printers or display screens
for visual
presentation of output and speakers or other sound generating devices for
audible presentation
of output. Examples of input devices that can be used for a user interface
include keyboards
and pointing devices, such as mice, touch pads, and digitizing tablets. As
another example, a
computer may receive input information through speech recognition or in other
audible formats.
[00186] Such computers may be interconnected by one or more networks in
any suitable
form, including as a local area network or a wide area network, such as an
enterprise network or
the Internet. Such networks may be based on any suitable technology and may
operate
according to any suitable protocol and may include wireless networks, wired
networks or fiber
optic networks.
39
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
[00187] The various methods or processes outlined herein may be coded as
software
that is executable on one or more processors that employ any one of a variety
of operating
systems or platforms. Additionally, such software may be written using any of
a number of
suitable programming languages and/or programming or scripting tools, and also
may be
compiled as executable machine language code or intermediate code that is
executed on a
framework or virtual machine.
[00188] In this respect, the enhancements to game components may be
embodied as a
tangible, non-transitory computer readable storage medium (or multiple
computer readable
storage media) (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy discs, compact
discs (CD),
optical discs, digital video disks (DVD), magnetic tapes, flash memories,
circuit configurations in
Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other semiconductor devices, or other non-
transitory,
tangible computer-readable storage media) encoded with one or more programs
that, when
executed on one or more computers or other processors, perform methods that
implement the
various embodiments discussed above. The computer readable medium or media can
be
transportable, such that the program or programs stored thereon can be loaded
onto one or
more different computers or other processors to implement various aspects as
discussed above.
As used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium"
encompasses
only a computer-readable medium that can be considered to be a manufacture
(i.e., article of
manufacture) or a machine.
[00189] The terms "program" or "software" are used herein in a generic
sense to refer to
any type of computer code or set of computer-executable instructions that can
be employed to
program a computer or other processor to implement various aspects of the
present invention
as discussed above. Additionally, it should be appreciated that according to
one aspect of this
embodiment, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methods
as
described herein need not reside on a single computer or processor, but may be
distributed in a
modular fashion amongst a number of different computers or processors to
implement various
aspects.
[00190] Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as
program
modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally,
program modules
include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc, that
perform particular
tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Typically the functionality
of the program
modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.
CA 02853016 2014-05-30
[00191] Also, data structures may be stored in computer-readable media in
any suitable
form. For simplicity of illustration, data structures may be shown to have
fields that are related
through location in the data structure. Such relationships may likewise be
achieved by assigning
storage for the fields with locations in a computer-readable medium that
conveys relationship
between the fields. However, any suitable mechanism may be used to establish a
relationship
between information in fields of a data structure, including through the use
of pointers, tags or
other mechanisms that establish relationship between data elements.
[00192] Various aspects of the present game enhancements may be used
alone, in
combination, or in a variety of arrangements not specifically discussed in the
embodiments
described in the foregoing and is therefore not limited in its application to
the details and
arrangement of components set forth in the foregoing description or
illustrated in the drawings.
For example, aspects described in one embodiment may be combined in any manner
with
aspects described in other embodiments. While particular embodiments have been
shown and
described, changes and modifications may be made.
41
