Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
THREE DIMENSIONAL ENHANCEMENTS TO GAME COMPONENTS 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.
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 outcome" or "winning
pattern").
[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] Gaming systems or machines of this type are popular, however, there
is a need
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to compete for the attention of users, and therefore it is necessary to
innovate by launching
new, engaging game features.
[0007] It is to be understood that gaming components and game components
are
interchangeable terms in this disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] 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.
[0009] In some embodiments of the invention, an electronic gaming machine
(EGM) for
providing three dimensional enhancements to game components 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;
a plurality of input devices including:
a) an acceptor of a physical item associated with a
monetary value;
b) a validator configured to identify the physical item; and
c) a cashout button actuatable to cause an initiation of a
payout associated with a credit balance; and
a display device configured with a user interface to display a
portion of the game data as a first matrix of at least one of a row and a
column
of game components in accordance with a set of game rules for a given game,
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each one of the game components of the first matrix having an original symbol
associated thereto, and at least a second matrix of at least one of a row and
a
column of game components in accordance with the set of game rules for the
given game, each one of the game components of the second matrix having an
original symbol associated thereto;
wherein the first matrix is rendered as a first reel, and the second
matrix is rendered as a second reel embedded within the first reel, wherein
the
first reel is layered on top of the second reel in a three-dimensional
configuration and the game components of the second reel are initially hidden
by the first reel;
wherein the processor is configured to:
identify at least one game component of the first matrix as
a trigger game
component;
detect activation of the trigger game component, wherein
the trigger game component is a transparent game component that reveals at
least one of the game components of the second matrix and wherein activation
of the trigger game component occurs when the transparent game component
stops in a pay line of the display device;
trigger an action event associated with the second matrix,
wherein the action event comprises a spin of the second reel;
integrate the at least one revealed game component of the
second matrix into the given game; and
determine a winning outcome using the first matrix and the
second matrix.
[0010] In some embodiments of the invention, the at least one game
component of the
second matrix lights up on the user interface when integrated into the given
game.
[0011] In some embodiments of the invention, the display device is
further configured to
display a portion of the game data as a third matrix of at least one of a row
and a column of
game components in accordance with the set of game rules for the given game,
each one
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of the game components having an original symbol associated thereto; and the
processor is
further configured to:
identify at least one game component of the second matrix as a second
trigger game component;
detect activation of the second trigger game component;
trigger an action event associated with the third matrix;
integrate at least one game component of the third matrix into the given
game; and
determine a winning outcome using the first matrix, the second matrix, and
the third matrix;
wherein the second matrix is layered on top of the third matrix.
[0012]
[0013] According to some embodiments of the invention, the third matrix is
a third reel
embedded within the second reel.
[0014] According to some embodiments of the invention, the first reel and
the second
reel are arranged asymmetrically such that the first reel and the second reel
each has a
different center of gravity on the user display.
[0015] According to some embodiments of the invention, one or more game
components are caused by the display device to light up when a winning, a
payline or a
trigger is activated or triggered.
[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention, at least one wild
card is
transferred from one game component to another game component within the same
matrix, or from a game component in a matrix to a different game component in
another matrix.
[0017] According to some embodiments of the invention, all the game
components in a
matrix constitute a single symbol that is an expanding wild card.
[0018]
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[0019] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least one
game
component of the second matrix is associated with a prize value used for the
winning
outcome.
[0020] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least one
game
component of the second matrix triggers a progressive jackpot prize used for
the winning
outcome.
[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least one
game
component of the third matrix triggers a progressive jackpot or a bonus game
prize
used for the winning outcome.
[0022] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least one
game
component of the second matrix triggers a secondary prize used for the winning
outcome.
[0023]
[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention, the at least one
game
component of the second matrix is associated with at least one additional
symbol used
for the winning outcome by forming a winning outcome with a symbol of the at
least one
gaming component of the first matrix.
[0025] According to some embodiments of the invention, the display device
is
configured with the user interface to display at least one stack of game
components,
wherein the at least one stack of game components comprises the trigger game
component from the first matrix and the at least one game component from the
second
matrix.
[0026]
[0027]
[0028]
[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, an electronic gaming
system for
providing three dimensional enhancements to game components is provided. The
electronic game system comprises:
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a server comprising a transmitter for transmitting electronic data signals
representing game data; and
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;
a plurality of input devices including:
a) an acceptor of a physical item associated with a
monetary value;
b) a validator configured to identify the physical item;
and
c) a cashout button actuatable to cause an initiation of
a payout associated with a credit balance;
a display device configured with a user interface to
display a portion of the game data as a first matrix of at least one of a row
and a
column of game components in accordance with a set of game rules for a given
game, each one of the game components of the first matrix having an original
symbol associated thereto, and at least a second matrix of at least one of a
row and
a column of game components in accordance with the set of game rules for the
given game, each one of the game components of the second matrix having an
original symbol associated thereto;
wherein the first matrix is rendered as a first reel, and the
second matrix is rendered as a second reel embedded within the first reel,
wherein
the first reel is layered on top of the second reel in a three-dimensional
configuration
and the game components of the second reel are initially hidden by the first
reel;
wherein the processor is configured to:
identify at least one game component of the first matrix as a
trigger game component;
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detect activation of the trigger game component, wherein the
trigger game component is a transparent game component that reveals at least
one
of the game components of the second matrix, and wherein activation of the
trigger
game component occurs when the transparent game component stops in a pay line
of the display device;
trigger an action event associated with the second matrix,
wherein the action event comprises a spin of the second reel;
integrate the at least one revealed game component of the
second matrix into the given game; and
determine a winning outcome using the first matrix and the
second matrix; and
a network configured to provide a communication link to couple the
server and the electronic device.
[0030] According to some embodiments of the invention, the electronic
device is an
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 given 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, receiving player control signals by the
first gaming
terminal from the mobile gaming device to initiate the first game;
wherein the electronic gaming terminal is configured to carry out the game by
the
first gaming terminal, including determining a final outcome of the game and
any award for
the winning outcome and transmit electronic data signals to the mobile gaming
device
identifying the winning outcome of the game and the award.
[0031] According to some embodiments of the invention, a computer
implemented method for providing three dimensional enhancements to game
components
is provided, the method comprising:
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receiving, via at least one receiver, game data for storage in at least one
persistent
data store;
accepting, via an acceptor, a physical item associated with a monetary value;
identifying, via a validator, the physical item;
displaying, using a display device, a portion of the game data as a first
matrix
of at least one of a row and a column of game components in accordance with a
set of
game rules for a given game, each one of the game components of the first
matrix having
an original symbol associated thereto, and at least a second matrix of at
least one of a row
and a column of game components in accordance with the set of game rules for
the given
game, each one of the game components of the second matrix having an original
symbol
associated thereto;
wherein the first matrix is rendered as a first reel and the second matrix is
rendered as a second reel embedded within the first reel, wherein the first
reel is layered on
top of the second reel in a three-dimensional configuration and the game
components of
the second reel are initially hidden by the first reel;
identifying, using a processor, at least one game component of the first
matrix
as a trigger game component;
detecting, using the processor, activation of the at least one trigger game
component, wherein the trigger game component is displayed as a transparent
game
component that reveals at least one of the game components of the second
matrix, and
wherein activation of the trigger game component occurs when the transparent
game
component stops in a pay line of the display device;
triggering, using the processor, an action event associated with the second
matrix, wherein the action event comprises a spin of the second reel;
integrating, using the processor, the at least one revealed game component
of the second matrix into the given game; determining, using the processor, a
winning
outcome using the first matrix and the second matrix; and
initiating, via actuation of a cashout button, a payout associated with a
credit
balance.
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[0032]
[0033]
[0034]
[0035] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further
comprises:
displaying, using the display device, a portion of the game data as a third
matrix
of at least one of a row and a column of game components in accordance with
the set of
game rules for the given game, each one of the game components having an
original
symbol associated thereto;
identifying, using the processor, at least one game component in the second
matrix
as a second trigger game component;
detecting, using the processor, activation of the second trigger game
component of
the second matrix;
triggering, using the processor, an action event associated with the third
matrix;
integrating, using the processor, the at least one game component of the third
matrix into the given game; and
determining, using the processor, the winning outcome using the first matrix,
the
second matrix, and the third matrix.
[0036] 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.
[0037] In this specification, the term "game component" or game element is
intended
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CA 02853009 2014-05-30
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
[0038] 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:
[0039] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an electronic gaming machine for
implementing
the gaming enhancements, according to some embodiments;
[0040] Fig. 2a is a block diagram of an electronic gaming machine linked to
a casino
host system, according to some embodiments;
[0041] Fig. 2b is an exemplary online implementation of a computer system
and online
gaming system;
[0042] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment for a
computer-
implemented method for enhancing game components according to some
embodiments;
[0043] Figure 4 is an exemplary embodiment of a layered three dimensional
enhancement to a game according to some embodiments;
[0044] Figure 5 is an exemplary layered segment may include three gaming
components according to some embodiments;
[0045] Figure 6 shows another example of a layered three dimensional
enhancement
to a game according to some embodiments;
[0046] Figure 7 shows another example of trigger game components according
to
some embodiments;
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[0047] Figure 8 shows another example of trigger game components according
to
some embodiments;
[0048] Figure 9 shows another example of trigger game components according
to
some embodiments; and
[0049] Figure 10 shows another example of trigger game components according
to
some embodiments.
[0050] It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like
features are
identified by like reference numerals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0051] 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.
[0052] 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-process communication. In still other embodiments,
there may be a
combination of communication interfaces implemented as hardware, software, and
combination thereof.
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[0053] 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.
[0054] 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.
[0055] 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-
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based algorithms, processes, methods, or other types of instruction sets can
be embodied
as a computer program product comprising a 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.
[0056] 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.
[0057] 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.
[0058] 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.
[0059] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an EGM 10 where the three-
dimensional
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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. 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.
[0060] 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.
[0061] 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.
[0062] 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.
[0063] 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
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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 (NFC) may be used
to couple
to EGM 10 which may be configured with NEC enabled hardware. This is a non-
limiting
example of a communication technique.
[0064] 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.
[0065] The keypad 36 may be an input device such as a touchscreen, or
dynamic
digital button panel, in accordance with some embodiments.
[0066] 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.
[0067] The EGM 10 may also include hardware configured to provide optical
motion
tracking. The optical motion tracking may include a body and head controller.
[0068] 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
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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.
[0069] 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).
[0070] 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
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.
[0071] 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.
[0072] The EGM 10 may also include a camera. The camera may be used for
motion
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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.
[0073] 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 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.
[0074] 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.
[0075] 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
- 17 -
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.
[0076] 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. 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.
[0077] 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.
[0078] 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
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).
[0079] 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.
[0080]
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
- 18 -
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-02
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
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").
[0081] 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.
[0082] 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 (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.
[0083] 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
-19-
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
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, WiMAX),
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.
[0084] 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.
[0085] Embodiments described herein may provide layered enhancements to
game
components in gaming systems. In an aspect, embodiments described herein may
provide
a layered reel type game. The reel may have depth to it in that there may be
one or more
layered reel segments that cooperate and integrate for the reel game.
[0086] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment for a
computer-
implemented method for enhancing game components in a gaming system such as
that
illustrated in figures 1, 2a, and 2b.
[0087] At 302, a display device 12, 14 displays game data as a first matrix
of at least
one of a row and/or a column of game components in accordance with a set of
game rules
for a given game. The display device 12, 14 also displays a second matrix of
at least one
of a row and/or a column of game components in accordance with the set of game
rules
for the given game; each game component has an original symbol associated
thereto. The
row/column may be made up of one or more game components, depending on the
game
being played.
[0088] In some embodiments, the first matrix is layered on top of the
second matrix.
For example, the first matrix may be a top matrix and the second matrix may be
hidden
- 20 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
behind the first matrix. As another example, the first matrix may be a reel,
and the second
matrix is another reel embedded or placed within the first reel. There may be
more than
two layers or two reels, each corresponding to a matrix.
[0089] The display device 12, 14 may display the first and second matrices
in a three-
dimensional layered configuration. That is, display device 12, 14 may display
a three-
dimensional enhancement by expanding the first and second matrix in a third
dimension.
The transformation results in a different and distinctive display of
electronic data signals to
illustrate the first and second matrix (as well as the additional matrices, if
applicable) three-
dimensionally.
[0090] As an illustrative example, embodiments described herein may provide
3D
enhanced gaming components that may be displayed as a set of three dimensional
reels
embedded within one another to create one or more layered reel segments. In
this
example, each reel can represent a matrix (e.g. a column or row of gaming
components).
Each of the layered reel segments may be associated with multiple gaming
components
from the different reels which may be used to calculate winning outcomes for a
given
game.
[0091] Figure 4 is an exemplary embodiment of a layered three dimensional
enhancement to a game. In this example, display device 12, 14 may display
three reels
402, 404, 406 embedded within each other. The reels have layered segments,
where a
segment of one reel 402 may overlap in part or in whole with a segment of
another reel
404, 406. Each layered segment can include one or more game components from
each
reel 402, 404, 406.
[0092] Referring back to Figure 3, at 304, a processor (e.g. of EGM 10)
identifies at
least one game component of the first matrix as a trigger game component (or
simply
"trigger component"). The trigger component may be selected by the player, by
the
processor and/or by the game configuration. For example, the trigger component
may be a
transparent component that may reveal additional game components and symbols
associated therewith.
[0093] A layered segment of the first matrix may include a trigger gaming
component
- 21 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
to trigger integration of one or more gaming components from another matrix
that couples
with or forms part of the layered segment. The gaming components of the
layered
segment may be used to determine winning outcomes, winning combinations, or
for the
basis of a prize award for a given game.
[0094] At 306, the processor (e.g. of EGM 10) detects activation of the
trigger game
component. For example, a game outcome or state may determine activation of
the trigger
game component. For another example, the user or gamer may have activated the
trigger
component by selecting one or more game components on display 12, 14.
[0095] For another example, the outer reel 402 (Figure 4) may include a
trigger
gaming component. When the trigger gaming component is displayed in a stop
line or
otherwise landed on, it may be activated.
[0096] At 308, the processor (e.g. of EGM 10) can trigger an action event
associated
with the second matrix based on activation of the trigger game component,
which can be
related to the first matrix. For example, the action event may be a spin of
the second reel.
The action event may also include rotating a multi-faceted game component. The
action
event may involve a secondary game. Other action events may be used. As
another
example, the trigger game component of the first matrix may be a transparent
game
component that reveals a game component of the second matrix.
[0097] Based on the illustrative example of Figure 4, when a trigger gaming
component (e.g. 408, as described below) is displayed in a stop line or
otherwise landed
on, it may trigger the next inner reel 404 to spin. Other actions may also be
triggered, such
as movement of the trigger gaming component to reveal a game component of the
second
matrix or reel.
[0098] At 310, the processor (e.g. of EGM 10) integrates at least one game
component of the second matrix into the given game. The additional game
component
may be integrated into the game for increased possible winning combinations,
or an
increased winning outcome or prize award. The game component may indicate a
prize
award, or an additional gaming symbol to be used to form winning combinations,
for
example. The next inner reel 404 may also have a trigger game component (e.g.
410), that
- 22 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
may be integrated into the game. For example, the other trigger game component
may in
turn trigger the other inner reel 406 to spin, and so on. Although three reels
402, 404, 406
are shown there may be more or less reels layered to provide layered segments.
[0099] At 312,
the processor (e.g. of EGM 10) can determine a winning outcome
based on at least a first matrix and a second matrix. The winning outcome may
be a prize
associated with one or more symbols of a displayed game component (or "gaming
symbols") on the second matrix. The winning outcome may be based on a winning
combination of gaming symbols, including a gaming symbol of the first matrix
and a
gaming symbol of the second matrix, and/ or multiple gaming symbols from first
or second
matrix. As another example, the game component or symbol of the second matrix
may
trigger a progressive jackpot prize used for the winning outcome. As a further
example, the
game component of the second matrix can trigger a secondary prize used for the
winning
outcome.
[00100] In some example embodiments, there may be a third matrix layered
behind the
second matrix, and so on. There may be even more layered matrices. The steps
of Figure
3 may apply to these additional layered matrices.
[00101] Figure 4 is an exemplary embodiment for an enhancement to a gaming
component. In this example, there is shown three reels 402, 404, 406 are
embedded
within each other. Each of the reels can have one or more layered segments,
where a
layered segment may overlap, in part or in whole, with a segment of another
reel. Each
layered segment includes one or more gaming components. The layered segment
includes a trigger gaming component to trigger integration of one or more
gaming
components from another reel to form winning combinations for a given game, or
for the
basis of a prize award.
[00102] In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figure 4, the three
reels 402,
404, 406 can be positioned in such a way as to cause all three reels to have
the same
center of gravity (i.e., the reels are in a symmetrical arrangement), which
can be
positioned at the centre of the innermost reel 406 and on or around prize (or
jackpot)
symbol 416.
- 23 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
[00103] In another embodiment of the invention as shown in Figure 6, the reels
402,
404, 406 can be positioned in such a way so that two or more reels may have
different
centers of gravity (i.e., one or more of the reels are in an asymmetrical
arrangement). For
example, the outermost reel 402 may have a centre of gravity that is placed
some distance
away from the centre of gravity of the middle reel 404 or innermost reel 406.
This may be
caused by the middle reel 404 being in closer proximity to one side of the
outermost reel
402 than to the opposite side of the reel 402, as shown in Fig. 6. In this
instance, while the
centre of gravity for the middle reel 404 and the innermost reel 406 are still
on or around
the prize symbol 416, the centre of gravity for the outermost reel 402 appears
to be to the
right of the prize symbol 416.In yet another embodiment of the invention (not
shown), the
reels 402, 404 and 406 may be of a non-circular shape. For example, one or
more of the
reels may be of a rectangular or triangular shape. In another example, the
reels may each
take a different shape of form, or morph (while spinning) into a different
shape of form
during the game.
[00104] It is to be appreciated that the center of gravity may also overlap
with the
centroid or geometric center if the associated reel or game component has a
uniform
density.
[00105] As shown in Figs. 4 and 6, the outer reel 402 may include a layered
segment
with a trigger gaming component. When the trigger gaming component is
displayed in a
stop line or otherwise landed on, it will trigger the next inner reel 404 to
spin, for example.
Other actions may also be triggered. The next inner reel 404 may also have a
trigger
gaming component, which will in turn trigger the other inner reel 406 to spin,
and so on.
Although three reels 402, 404, 406 are shown there may be more or less reels
layered to
provide layered segments.
[00106] A layered segment may provide access to one or more gaming components
of
an inner reel to award a prize. For example, an inner reel gaming component
may be
associated with a gaming symbol or prize that may be accessed via a trigger
gaming
component of an outer reel.
[00107] A layered segment may integrate one or more gaming components of an
inner
reel with gaming components of another reel to form a winning combination. For
example,
- 24 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
the inner reels 404, 406 may include one or more gaming components that may be
integrated with gaming components of the outer reel 402 to calculate or
otherwise
determine winning combinations.
[00108] In the example shown in Figure 4, a trigger gaming component of the
outer reel
402 may be a transparent gaming component 408. The transparent gaming
component
408 may act as a "hole" or "entrance" that permits access to an inner reel 404
spin
event(s).
[00109] When the transparent gaming component 408 is landed on, it may act as
a
trigger or trigger component to the next 'inner' reel 404. The player may
initiate a spin of
the inner reel 404. The inner reel 404 may also include another transparent
gaming
component 410. When the transparent gaming component 410 is in the stop
position, it
may act as a trigger to the next inner reel 406, and so on. A center area may
hold a large
prize 416 such as a progressive component. The inner reel 406 may include a
transparent
gaming component 414 or other trigger gaming component that may trigger the
prize
symbol 416. The reels 402, 404, 406 may then be held as anticipation to a
larger prize
rather than just spinning reels.
[00110] For this example, as shown in Figure 5, a layered segment may include
three
gaming components 408, 410, 412 from each of the three reels 402, 404, 406.
[00111] An innermost or inner reel 406 gaming component 412 may be associated
with
a prize value. The prize value may be awarded to a player when the spinning
reel 412
stops on the gaming component 412. The inner reel 406 gaming component 412 may
be
accessed by the trigger gaming components 408, 410 of the outer reels 402,
404. Each
gaming component on the different reels 402, 404, 406 may be associated with
prize
values that may increase in value as the inner reels are accessed. For
example, a layered
segment may be three gaming components 408, 410, 412, from which two are
trigger
gaming components 408, 410 that can be used to access the gaming component 412
of
inner reel 406, and to access a prize value associated therewith. The inner
reel 406 may
also have a trigger gaming component 414 to access a prize jackpot 416.
[00112] In another example, an inner reel 406 gaming component 412 may be
- 25 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
combined with gaming components 410, 412 from the outer reels 402, 404 to
calculate or
otherwise determine winning combinations. Accordingly, a layered segment may
be a
combination of gaming components 408, 410, 412 from different reels that may
combine to
form winning combinations.
[00113] In another embodiment of the invention, each of the reels 402, 404 and
406
may be rotating or spinning at a similar or different speed(s) during
operation. In addition,
while rotating, each of the reels 402, 404, and 406 may be moving from one
position to a
next position, and thus shifting its respective centre of gravity accordingly.
For example, a
game starting in the position or arrangement as shown in Figure 4 may, during
a player's
engagement and operation, move to a new position or arrangement as shown in
Figure 6.
This may be caused by reels 404 and 406 spinning towards the left side of the
outermost
reel 402, and/or by reel 402 spinning to the right side during the game. In
another
embodiment, some or all of three reels 402, 404 and 406 as well as the prize
symbol 416
may be spinning or moving during the same time, but may be along different
directions
and different speed(s). As such, once the reels and other game components stop
spinning,
all three reels may each have a different centre of gravity. Regardless of the
respective
position or arrangement of each reel, a combination of gaming components 408,
410, 412
from different reels may combine or align to form winning combinations.
[00114] In one embodiment of the invention, certain game components can be
caused
by the display device 12, 14 to light up on the user display when a winning
combination, a
payline or a trigger is activated or triggered. For example, rear reel symbols
or game
components may light up when a payline or a trigger is activated. For another
example,
one or more game components in a winning combination may light up when a
winning
combination is "hit" or determined.
[00115] Referring now to Figure 7, there is shown another example of trigger
game
components. In some example embodiments, the matrices may be stacked to
provide a
stack of game components. A trigger game component from a first matrix may
trigger use
of a game component from a second matrix. The trigger game component of the
first
matrix may be a transparent area such that an additional game component of the
second
matrix is visible through the transparent area for integration into a given
game.
- 26 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
[00116] For example, the first matrix may be a grid 700 of five columns and
four rows,
resulting in 5 x 4 = 20 gaming components, illustrated as blank cells that may
or may not
be transparent. In the grid 700, an original symbol (not shown) may be
associated with
each one of the 20 gaming components in each blank cell.
[00117] There may be transparent symbol(s) 702 that randomly appears on the
reels of
the matrix. When activated (e.g. at a stop line), the transparent symbol may
allow symbols
in a matrix stacked behind the front grid 700 to push through and be used as
part of a
winning combination. This may be an action event example. If the symbols in
the matrix
stacked behind are used in a winning combination they may disappear (cascade,
move,
animate), allowing for additional symbols to push through. This may also be an
action
event example.
[00118] In one exemplary embodiment, the configuration of figure 7 may be a
spinning
reel game. A win may be obtained whenever matching symbols are aligned
vertically,
horizontally, or diagonally. These are illustrative examples and there may be
other patterns
of winning combinations of symbols. Using the transparent symbol(s) 702, a
symbol in a
matrix behind may be revealed and matched with neighboring symbols to form a
winning
combination, thus increasing the odds of winning. In another exemplary
embodiment, the
configuration of figure 7 may be a bingo card. Similarly, anyone of the
symbols provided in
cells (including a symbol stacked behind a transparent symbol(s) 702) may be
used to
form a complete row or column and result in a winning combination, thus
increasing the
odds of winning. Other possibilities for the matrix-type gaming enhancement
may be used
for various embodiments.
[00119] Figure 8 illustrates transparent symbol(s) 702 with one or more
additional
matrices of gaming component stacked behind. When reel stops on transparent
symbol(s)
702 then the symbols of the matrix behind may be used in line wins. The symbol
spot may
be replenished by a reel strip (e.g. matrix) that is housed in behind the
reels (e.g. matrix).
The new symbols may push or be revealed through the transparent area and
become the
relevant symbol visible to users and/or used in line wins.
[00120] In this scenario, various embodiments are possible to integrate the
additional
symbols provided on cells of the additional matrices into the original game.
For example, in
- 27 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
a spinning reel game, anyone of the additional symbols may be used to form a
winning
combination with neighboring cells. Alternatively, only the top, or visible,
symbol may be
matched with neighboring cells and as the game progresses, hidden symbols may
be
discovered and used to further advance the game. In another embodiment,
various events
in the game, such as a particular winning combination or reaching a threshold
of points,
may allow the player to see and/or use the additional hidden symbols in
addition to the top
or visible symbol to form winning combinations. Other scenarios are also
possible. In
addition, the number of stacked symbols may be more or less than three, as
desired.
[00121] Referring now to Figure 9, there is shown another example embodiment
with
transparent game components. A transparent game component 902 may randomly
appear
on the reel (e.g. first matrix). When it appears, the transparent game
component 902 may
include a mark within the symbol area with a number or watermark sign.
[00122] In one example, at the end of the bonus, one last free game may be
awarded
where all the transparent symbol areas may be activated and will allow for a
set of reels in
behind the first matrix game area to become active. Where there are wins,
winning
symbols may disappear and allow for new symbols to push through. If the newly
pushed
through symbols are used in a win they may disappear (cascade) allowing for
additional
symbols to push through. This may continue until all of the transparent
numbers are used
up per symbol area.
[00123] A transparent game component 902 may form part of the reel grid as
part of the
game. When a 'transparent' symbol 902 lands, it may mark the game grid (5x4
area)
where it lands with a number or watermark. The total number of transparent
symbols that
has landed per area may be tracked. The watermark may indicate the number of
additional
matrices or game components of matrices behind the original or top layer
matrix. For
example, there may be five matrixes behind the top layer matrix as represented
by the
number 5 on the transparent game component 902. Each additional matrix may be
of a
different size or configuration, so not all transparent game components will
have the same
number or watermark, as each matrix may not cover the space behind all
transparent
game components.
[00124] Referring to Figure 10, there is shown 5 additional game components
from five
- 28 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
additional matrices stacked behind the transparent game component 902.
[00125] In some example embodiments, when the free games are complete, one
final
free game may be awarded and the transparent symbol areas may become activated
with
the 'push through' symbols. These can be wilds, bonus triggers, straight
credit prizes,
jackpot symbols, scatters, multipliers, etc. symbols. For example, the deeper
or more
layers the user gets, the more valuable the game components can become.
[00126] Referring again to Figure 4 there is shown an example trigger game
component
that is transparent to reveal additional game components.
[00127] In accordance with some embodiments, display device 12, 14 may include
transparent game components on reels to reveal the back side of the reel as it
spins,
allowing the player to track special symbols as they travel around the dark
side of the reel,
and around again into view.
[00128] 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
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.
- 29 -
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
[00129] 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.
[00130] 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.
[00131] 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.
[00132] 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
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substantially affect the way the embodiments work.
[00133] 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.
[00134] 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.
[00135] The concept of enhanced game components may be applied to game
mechanics in multiple ways. For example, Wild cards or wilds 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 of the set of reels, 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.
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[00136] In addition, in one embodiment of the invention, wild cards can be
transferred
from one game component to another game component within the same reel or
matrix, or
from a game component in a reel (or matrix) to a different game component in
another reel
(or matrix). This transferring of wild cards may happen in one or more spins
of the one or
more reels.
[00137] In another embodiment, a whole rear reel can become a single symbol
such as
in the case of an expanding wild card.
[00138] 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.
[00139] 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.
[00140] 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.
[00141] 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
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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.
[00142] 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 Patent No. 9,672,696), 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.
[00143] 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 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.
[00144] 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.
[00145] 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
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Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-02
CA 02853009 2014-05-30
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.
[00146] 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.
[00147] 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.
[00148] 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. The three dimensional enhancements provide variety in primary and bonus
game
types to appeal to a broad player demographic.
[00149] 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.
[00150] 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.
[00151] 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,
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CA 02853009 2014-05-30
help functionality, introduction to game, and so on.
[00152] 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.
[00153] 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.
[00154] 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
Twittern"). 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 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.
[00155] 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.
[00156] The above-described embodiments can be implemented in any of numerous
ways. For example, the embodiments may be implemented using hardware, software
or a
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CA 02853009 2014-05-30
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.
[00157] 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 (FDA), a smart phone, a tablet or
any other
suitable portable or fixed electronic device.
[00158] 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.
[00159] 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.
[00160] 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.
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CA 02853009 2014-05-30
[00161] 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.
[00162] 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.
[00163] 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.
[00164] 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
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CA 02853009 2014-05-30
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.
[00165] 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.
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