AU2020239714A1 - Electronic gaming machine and method - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of gameplay on a gaming device, comprising the steps of: maintaining, in a memory of the gaming device, a plurality of reel strips, each comprising a plurality of game symbols, wherein at least one instance of a feature symbol is present on at least one of the plurality of reel strips and wherein at least one instance of a configurable symbol is present on at least one same or adjacent reel strip to the, or each, reel strip comprising an instance of the feature symbol; undertaking an instance of gameplay, comprising: determining a game state defining a display of a selection of the symbols of the plurality of reel strips, wherein each symbol is uniquely associated with a window; controlling a display of the gaming device such as to present a visual depiction of the game state; determining that at least one feature symbol is present within the resulting game state and, in response: determining one or more windows for modification based on the locations of the one or more windows associated with the one or more displayed feature symbols according to a predefined window selection rule; and determining and applying a modified status for the, or each, window for modification according to a predefined modification rule, and/or determining that one or more configurable symbols are present within windows having an associated modified status and, in response: determining, for the or each said configurable symbol, a prize award based on a prize value associated with the configurable symbol and the modified status associated with the window in which the configurable symbol is located; and awarding the prize, and a gaming device implanting said method. 400 Start (n = 0) 420 FSetting n = n + 1I+ 430 Obtaining a randomly generated number from a true or pseudo random number generator -440 Mapping the randomly generated number to one of the reel positions on the nth reel strip i -450 Map symbols of the n th reel strip to an ntIh column of symbol positions based on the mapped reel position and a reference position n = number of 460 reel strips? No FYes End 4,0 FIG. 4

Description

Start (n = 0)

420

FSetting n = n + 1I+

430 Obtaining a randomly generated number from a true or pseudo random number generator

-440

Mapping the randomly generated number to one of the reel positions on the nth reel strip

i -450

Map symbols of the n th reel strip to an ntIh column of symbol positions based on the mapped reel position and a reference position

n= number of 460 reel strips? No

FYes

End

4,0 FIG. 4

ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINE AND METHOD FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a gaming machine and corresponding method for awarding cash on reel prizes associated with hot spot windows. BACKGROUND

[0002] Electronic gaming machines ("EGMs") or gaming devices provide a variety of wagering games such as slot games, video poker games, video blackjack games, roulette games, video bingo games, keno games and other types of games that are frequently offered at casinos and other locations. Play on EGMs typically involves a player establishing a credit balance by inputting money, or another form of monetary credit, and placing a monetary wager (from the credit balance) on one or more outcomes of an instance (or single play) of a primary or base game. In many games, a player may qualify for secondary games or bonus rounds by attaining a certain winning combination or triggering event in the base game. Secondary games provide an opportunity to win additional game instances, credits, awards, jackpots, progressives, etc. Awards from any winning outcomes are typically added back to the credit balance and can be provided to the player upon completion of a gaming session or when the player wants to "cash out."

[0003] "Slot" type games are often displayed to the player in the form of various symbols arrayed in a row-by-column grid or matrix. Specific matching combinations of symbols along predetermined paths (or paylines) through the matrix indicate the outcome of the game. The display typically highlights winning combinations/outcomes for ready identification by the player. Matching combinations and their corresponding awards are usually shown in a "pay-table" which is available to the player for reference. Often, the player may vary his/her wager to include differing numbers of paylines and/or the amount bet on each line. By varying the wager, the player may sometimes alter the frequency or number of winning combinations, frequency or number of secondary games, and/or the amount awarded.

[0004] Typical games use a random number generator (RNG) to randomly determine the outcome of each game. The game is designed to return a certain percentage of the amount wagered back to the player (RTP = return to player) over the course of many plays or instances of the game. The RTP and randomness of the RNG are critical to ensuring the fairness of the games and are therefore highly regulated. Upon initiation of play, the RNG randomly determines a game outcome and symbols are then selected which correspond to that outcome. Notably, some games may include an element of skill on the part of the player and are therefore not entirely random. SUMMARY

[0005] The disclosure defines a gaming device configured to undertake selection of symbols in reel games which include feature symbols and configurable symbols. The gaming device is configured to identify the presence of one or more feature symbols in a game result of a particular instance of gameplay and to associate "hot spot window" status with each window having and/or neighboring (e.g. adjacent) a feature symbol. Configurable symbols are associated with a configurable prize and, when a configurable symbol is selected for display in a hot spot window, the configurable prize is awarded along with a multiplier (including x1) that may be associated with the hot spot window. Generally, multipliers increase when a hot spot window is associated with multiple feature symbols.

[0006] A gaming device is provided comprising: a display; a processor; and a memory. The memory includes a plurality of reel strips, each comprising a plurality of game symbols. At least one instance of a feature symbol is present on at least one of the plurality of reel strips. At least one instance of a configurable symbol is present on at least one same or adjacent reel strip to the, or each, reel strip comprising an instance of the feature symbol. The memory is interfaced with the processor and comprises program code. The program code is configured to cause the processor to: undertake gameplay of a primary game, wherein an instance of gameplay comprises determining a game state defining a display of a selection of the symbols of the plurality of reel strips, wherein each symbol is uniquely associated with a window; determine, after a particular instance of gameplay, whether one or more feature symbols are present within the resulting game state and, if present: determine one or more windows for modification based on the locations of the one or more windows associated with the one or more displayed feature symbols according to a predefined window selection rule; and determine and apply a modified status for the, or each, window for modification according to a predefined modification rule, control the display such as to present a visual depiction of the game state; and determine, after the particular instance of gameplay, whether one or more configurable symbols are present within windows having an associated modified status and, if present: determine, for the or each said configurable symbol, a prize award based on a prize value associated with the configurable symbol and the modified status associated with the window in which the configurable symbol is located; and award the prize.

[0007] A method of gameplay on a gaming device is also provided. The method includes a step of maintaining, in a memory of the gaming device, a plurality of reel strips, each comprising a plurality of game symbols, wherein at least one instance of a feature symbol is present on at least one of the plurality of reel strips and wherein at least one instance of a configurable symbol is present on at least one same or adjacent reel strip to the, or each, reel strip comprising an instance of the feature symbol. The method also comprises undertaking an instance of gameplay, where the gameplay comprises: determining a game state defining a display of a selection of the symbols of the plurality of reel strips, wherein each symbol is uniquely associated with a window; controlling a display of the gaming device such as to present a visual depiction of the game state; determining that at least one feature symbol is present within the resulting game state and, in response: determining one or more windows for modification based on the locations of the one or more windows associated with the one or more displayed feature symbols according to a predefined window selection rule; and determining and applying a modified status for the, or each, window for modification according to a predefined modification rule, and/or determining that one or more configurable symbols are present within windows having an associated modified status and, in response: determining, for the or each said configurable symbol, a prize award based on a prize value associated with the configurable symbol and the modified status associated with the window in which the configurable symbol is located; and awarding the prize. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing several EGMs networked with various gaming related servers.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing various functional elements of an exemplary EGM.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates an example reel strip layout including feature symbols.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a symbol selection method.

[0012] FIG. 5 shows a method for managing feature symbols.

[0013] FIGs 6A-6E show visual representations of game play with features symbols.

[0014] FIGs 7A-7E relate to awarding prizes based on hot spot windows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates several different models of EGMs which may be networked to various gaming related servers. The present invention can be configured to work as a system 100 in a gaming environment including one or more server computers 102 (e.g., slot servers of a casino) that are in communication, via a communications network, with one or more gaming devices 104A-104X (EGMs, slots, video poker, bingo machines, etc.). The gaming devices 104A-104X may alternatively be portable and/or remote gaming devices such as, but not limited to, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, or a game console.

[0016] Communication between the gaming devices 104A-104X and the server computers 102, and among the gaming devices 104A-104X, may be direct or indirect, such as over the Internet through a website maintained by a computer on a remote server or over an online data network including commercial online service providers, Internet service providers, private networks, and the like. In other embodiments, the gaming devices 104A-104X may communicate with one another and/or the server computers 102 over RF, cable TV, satellite links and the like.

[0017] In some embodiments, server computers 102 may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, the present invention may, in one or more embodiments, be practiced on a stand-alone gaming device such as gaming device 104A, gaming device 104B or any of the other gaming devices 104C-104X. However, it is typical to find multiple EGMs connected to networks implemented with one or more of the different server computers 102 described herein.

[0018] The server computers 102 may include a central determination gaming system server 106, a ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) system server 108, a player tracking system server 110, a progressive system server 112, and/or a casino management system server 114. Gaming devices 104A-104X may include features to enable operation of any or all servers for use by the player and/or operator (e.g., the casino, resort, gaming establishment, tavern, pub, etc.). For example, game outcomes may be generated on a central determination gaming system server 106 and then transmitted over the network to any of a group of remote terminals or remote gaming devices 104A-104X that utilize the game outcomes and display the results to the players.

[0019] Gaming device 104A is often of a cabinet construction which may be aligned in rows or banks of similar devices for placement and operation on a casino floor. The gaming device 104A often includes a main door 116 which provides access to the interior of the cabinet. Gaming device 104A typically includes a button area or button deck 120 accessible by a player that is configured with input switches or buttons 122, an access channel for a bill validator 124, and/or an access channel for a ticket printer 126.

[0020] In FIG. 1, gaming device 104A is shown as a Rem XLTMmodelgaming device manufactured by Aristocrat®Technologies, Inc. As shown, gaming device 104A is a reel machine having a gaming display area 118 comprising a number (typically 3 or 5) of mechanical reels 130 with various symbols displayed on them. The reels 130 are independently spun and stopped to show a set of symbols within the gaming display area 118 which may be used to determine an outcome to the game. In embodiments where the reels are mechanical, mechanisms can be employed to implement greater functionality. For example, the boundaries of the gaming display area boundaries of the gaming display area 118 may be defined by one or more mechanical shutters controllable by a processor. The mechanical shutters may be controlled to open and close, to correspondingly reveal and conceal more or fewer symbol positions from the mechanical reels 130. For example, a top boundary of the gaming display area 118 may be raised by moving a corresponding mechanical shutter upwards to reveal an additional row of symbol positions on stopped mechanical reels. Further, a transparent or translucent display panel may be overlaid on the gaming display area 118 and controlled to override or supplement what is displayed on one or more of the mechanical reel(s).

[0021] In many configurations, the gaming machine 104A may have a main display 128 (e.g., video display monitor) mounted to, or above, the gaming display area 118. The main display 128 can be a high-resolution LCD, plasma, LED, or OLED panel which may be flat or curved as shown, a cathode ray tube, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor.

[0022] In some embodiments, the bill validator 124 may also function as a "ticket-in" reader that allows the player to use a casino issued credit ticket to load credits onto the gaming device 104A (e.g., in a cashless ticket ("TITO") system). In such cashless embodiments, the gaming device 104A may also include a "ticket-out" printer 126 for outputting a credit ticket when a "cash out" button is pressed. Cashless TITO systems are well known in the art and are used to generate and track unique bar-codes or other indicators printed on tickets to allow players to avoid the use of bills and coins by loading credits using a ticket reader and cashing out credits using a ticket-out printer 126 on the gaming device 104A. In some embodiments a ticket reader can be used which is only capable of reading tickets. In some embodiments, a different form of token can be used to store a cash value, such as a magnetic stripe card.

[0023] In some embodiments, a player tracking card reader 144, a transceiver for wireless communication with a player's smartphone, a keypad 146, and/or an illuminated display 148 for reading, receiving, entering, and/or displaying player tracking information is provided in EGM 104A. In such embodiments, a game controller within the gaming device 104A can communicate with the player tracking server system 110 to send and receive player tracking information.

[0024] Gaming device 104A may also include a bonus topper wheel 134. When bonus play is triggered (e.g., by a player achieving a particular outcome or set of outcomes in the primary game), bonus topper wheel 134 is operative to spin and stop with indicator arrow 136 indicating the outcome of the bonus game. Bonus topper wheel 134 is typically used to play a bonus game, but it could also be incorporated into play of the base or primary game.

[0025] A candle 138 may be mounted on the top of gaming device 104A and may be activated by a player (e.g., using a switch or one of buttons 122) to indicate to operations staff that gaming device 104A has experienced a malfunction or the player requires service. The candle 138 is also often used to indicate a jackpot has been won and to alert staff that a hand payout of an award may be needed.

[0026] There may also be one or more information panels 152 which may be a back lit, silkscreened glass panel with lettering to indicate general game information including, for example, a game denomination (e.g., $0.25 or $1), pay lines, pay tables, and/or various game related graphics. In some embodiments, the information panel(s) 152 may be implemented as an additional video display.

[0027] Gaming devices 104A have traditionally also included a handle 132 typically mounted to the side of main cabinet 116 which may be used to initiate game play.

[0028] Many or all the above described components can be controlled by circuitry (e.g., a gaming controller) housed inside the main cabinet 116 of the gaming device 104A, the details of which are shown in FIG. 2.

[0029] Note that not all gaming devices suitable for implementing embodiments of the present invention necessarily include top wheels, top boxes, information panels, cashless ticket systems, and/or player tracking systems. Further, some suitable gaming devices have only a single game display that includes only a mechanical set of reels and/or a video display, while others are designed for bar counters or table tops and have displays that face upwards.

[0030] An alternative example gaming device 104B illustrated in FIG. 1 is the ArcTM model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat®Technologies, Inc. Note that where possible, reference numerals identifying similar features of the gaming device 104A embodiment are also identified in the gaming device 104B embodiment using the same reference numbers. Gaming device 104B does not include physical reels and instead shows game play functions on main display 128. An optional topper screen 140 may be used as a secondary game display for bonus play, to show game features or attraction activities while a game is not in play, or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. In some embodiments, topper screen 140 may also or alternatively be used to display progressive jackpot prizes available to a player during play of gaming device 104B.

[0031] Example gaming device 104B includes a main cabinet 116 including a main door 118 which opens to provide access to the interior of the gaming device 104B. The main or service door 118 is typically used by service personnel to refill the ticket out printer 126 and collect bills and tickets inserted into the bill validator 124. The door 118 may also be accessed to reset the machine, verify and/or upgrade the software, and for general maintenance operations.

[0032] Another example gaming device 104C shown is the HelixTM model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat®Technologies, Inc. Gaming device 104C includes a main display 128A that is in a landscape orientation. Although not illustrated by the front view provided, the landscape display 128A may have a curvature radius from top to bottom, or alternatively from side to side. In some embodiments, display 128A is a flat panel display. Main display 128A is typically used for primary game play while secondary display 128B is typically used for bonus game play, to show game features or attraction activities while the game is not in play or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator.

[0033] Many different types of games, including mechanical slot games, video slot games, video poker, video blackjack, video pachinko, keno, bingo, and lottery, may be provided with or implemented within the depicted gaming devices 104A-104C and other similar gaming devices. Each gaming device may also be operable to provide many different games. Games may be differentiated according to themes, sounds, graphics, type of game (e.g., slot game vs. card game vs. game with aspects of skill), denomination, number of paylines, maximum jackpot, progressive or non-progressive, bonus games, and may be deployed for operation in Class 2 or Class 3, etc.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting exemplary internal electronic components of a gaming device 200 connected to various external systems. All or parts of the example gaming device 200 shown could be used to implement any one of the example gaming devices 104A-X depicted in FIG. 1. The games available for play on the gaming device 200 are controlled by a game controller 202 that includes one or more processors 204 and a game that may be stored as game software or a program 206 in a memory 208 coupled to the processor 204. The memory 208 may include one or more mass storage devices or media that are housed within gaming device 200. Within the mass storage devices and/or memory 208, one or more databases 210 may be provided for use by the program 206. A random number generator (RNG) 212 that can be implemented in hardware and/or software is typically used to generate random numbers that are used in the operation of game play to ensure that game play outcomes are random and meet regulations for a game of chance. In some embodiments, the random number generator 212 is a pseudo random number generator.

[0035] Alternatively, a game instance (i.e. a play or round of the game) may be generated on a remote gaming device such as a central determination gaming system server 106 (not shown in FIG. 2 but see FIG. 1). The game instance is communicated to gaming device 200 via the network 214 and then displayed on gaming device 200. Gaming device 200 may execute game software, such as but not limited to video streaming software that allows the game to be displayed on gaming device 200. When a game is stored on gaming device 200, it may be loaded from a memory 208 (e.g., from a read only memory (ROM)) or from the central determination gaming system server 106 to memory 208. The memory 208 may include RAM, ROM or another form of storage media that stores instructions for execution by the processor 204.

[0036] The gaming device 200 may include a topper display 216 or another form of a top box (e.g., a topper wheel, a topper screen, etc.) which sits above main cabinet 218. The gaming cabinet 218 or topper display 216 may also house a number of other components which may be used to add features to a game being played on gaming device 200, including speakers 220, a ticket printer 222 which prints bar coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player's credit value, a ticket reader 224 which reads bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player's credit value, and a player tracking interface 232. The player tracking interface 232 may include a keypad 226 for entering information, a player tracking display 228 for displaying information (e.g., an illuminated or video display), a card reader 230 for receiving data and/or communicating information to and from media or a device such as a smart phone enabling player tracking. Ticket printer 222 may be used to print tickets for a TITO system server 108. The gaming device 200 may further include a bill validator 234, buttons 236 for player input, cabinet security sensors 238 to detect unauthorized opening of the cabinet 218, a primary game display 240, and a secondary game display 242, each coupled to and operable under the control of game controller 202.

[0037] Gaming device 200 may be connected over network 214 to player tracking system server 110. Player tracking system server 110 may be, for example, an OASIS© system manufactured by Aristocrat®Technologies, Inc. Player tracking system server 110 is used to track play (e.g. amount wagered, games played, time of play and/or other quantitative or qualitative measures) for individual players so that an operator may reward players in a loyalty program. The player may use the player tracking interface 232 to access his/her account information, activate free play, and/or request various information. Player tracking or loyalty programs seek to reward players for their play and help build brand loyalty to the gaming establishment. The rewards typically correspond to the player's level of patronage (e.g., to the player's playing frequency and/or total amount of game plays at a given casino). Player tracking rewards may be complimentary and/or discounted meals, lodging, entertainment and/or additional play. Player tracking information may be combined with other information that is now readily obtainable by a casino management system.

[0038] Gaming devices, such as gaming devices 104A-104X, 200, are highly regulated to ensure fairness and, in many cases, gaming devices 104A-104X, 200 are operable to award monetary awards (e.g., typically dispensed in the form of a redeemable voucher). Therefore, to satisfy security and regulatory requirements in a gaming environment, hardware and software architectures are implemented in gaming devices 104A-104X, 200 that differ significantly from those of general-purpose computers. Adapting general purpose computers to function as gaming devices 200 is not simple or straightforward because of: 1) the regulatory requirements for gaming devices 200, 2) the harsh environment in which gaming devices 200 operate, 3) security requirements, 4) fault tolerance requirements, and 5) the requirement for additional special purpose componentry enabling functionality of an EGM. These differences require substantial engineering effort with respect to game design implementation, hardware components and software.

[0039] When a player wishes to play the gaming device 200, he/she can insert cash or a ticket voucher through a coin acceptor (not shown) or bill validator 234 to establish a credit balance on the gamine machine. The credit balance is used by the player to place wagers on instances of the game and to receive credit awards based on the outcome of winning instances. The credit balance is decreased by the amount of each wager and increased upon a win. The player can add additional credits to the balance at any time. The player may also optionally insert a loyalty club card into the card reader 230. During the game, the player views the game outcome on the game displays 240, 242. Other game and prize information may also be displayed.

[0040] When the player is done, he/she cashes out the credit balance (typically by pressing a cash out button to receive a ticket from the ticket printer 222). The ticket may be "cashed-in" for money or inserted into another machine to establish a credit balance for play.

[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a set 300 of five reel strips 341, 342, 343, 344, 345. In the example, each reel strip has thirty reel strip positions 301-330. Each reel strip position of each reel has a symbol. For example, a "Wild" symbol 331 occupies the twenty-eighth reel strip position 328 of the fourth reel 344. Other reels strips to those illustrated in Figure 3 can be used, for example, reel strips where two or more wild symbols are placed at consecutive reel strip positions of a reel strip. In other examples, the reel strips could have between 30 and 100 reel strip positions. The actual lengths of the game reel strips depend on factors such as the number of wild symbols (in general, the more wilds there are, the longer the reel strip needs to be to maintain the target RTP), and volatility (in general, the higher the prize value is, the longer the reel strip needs to be to lower the hit rate to maintain the target RTP).

[0042] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a method 400 carried out by the processor 204 to select symbols from reel strips. At step 410, the processor 204 starts the process of selecting symbols with a counter (n) set at zero as symbols have not yet been selected from any reel strips. At step 420, the processor 204 increments the counter.

In the first iteration, the counter is set to 1 to reflect that symbols are to be selected from a first reel strip. At step 430, the processor obtains a randomly generated number from a true or pseudo random number generator 212. At step 440 the processor maps the generated number to one of the reel positions of the nth reel strip. In the first iteration, this is the first reel strip. To map the generated number to one of the reel positions, the possible values that can be returned from the RNG 212 are divided into ranges and associated with specific ones of the reel positions in memory 208. In one example, these ranges are stored as a look-up table. In one example, the ranges are each the same size so that each of the reel strip positions has the same chance of been selected. In other examples, the ranges may be arranged to weight the relative chances of selecting specific reel strip positions. The reel strips may be of different lengths.

[0043] At step 450, the processor 204 maps symbols of the nth reel strip to and nth column of symbol display positions based on the mapped reel position and a reference position. In an example, the reference position is the bottom position of the symbol positions of each column of symbol positions. In this example, the selected reel position (and hence the symbol at this position) is mapped to the bottom symbol position of the column. In an example, there are two other symbol positions in the column of symbol positions and hence symbols at two neighbouring reel strip positions are also mapped to the symbol positions of the column. Referring to the example reel strips of Figure 3, if the value returned by the RNG 212 is mapped to reel position 313, then for the first reel strip 321, "Pic 1" symbol 353 is mapped to a bottom symbol position, "10" symbol 352 is mapped to a middle symbol position, and "Pic 2" symbol 351 is mapped to a top symbol position.

[0044] At step 460, the processor 460 determines whether symbols have been selected for all of the reel strips, and if not the processor 204 reverts to step 420 and iterates through steps 430, 440 and 450 until it is determined at step 460 that symbols have been selected from all n reel strips and mapped to all n columns of symbol positions after which the symbol selection process ends 470. Different numbers of symbols may be mapped to different numbers of symbol positions.

[0045] After the symbols of all reel strips have been mapped to symbol position, the processor 204 controls display 240 to display them at the symbol positions.

[0046] Referring back to FIG. 3, there is also shown one or more feature symbols 354 located at specific positions 301-330. The specific positions are chosen to provide a desired probability of a feature symbol 354 being selected during gameplay (as described, for example, with reference to FIG. 4). That is, a probability of selection can be increased by increasing the number of instances of feature symbol 354 present on a particular one of the five reel strips 341-345. For the purposes of this example, one feature symbol 354 is shown present on each of internal reel strips 342, 343, 344.

[0047] Herein, "internal" refers to the reel strips 342, 343, 344 which, when displayed on primary display 240, have adjacent reel strips 341-345 located on both sides. In contrast, as used herein, "external" refers to the reel strips 341, 345 located on the outside of the other reel strips 342-344 (i.e. having only one adjacent reel strip 341 345).

[0048] According to the embodiment shown, the feature symbols 354 are restricted to being located on internal reel strips 342-344. This can provide an advantage in that it ensures that any selected and displayed feature symbol 354 will have other selected and displayed symbols located on each of its immediately adjacent columns.

[0049] FIG. 5 shows a method for gameplay of a hot-window game on the gaming device 200, according to an embodiment. Particular examples of the display 240 during said gameplay are shown in FIGs 6A-6E.

[0050] At step 500, the gaming device 200 is in a previously determined game state as shown in FIG. 6A, and receives a command to perform a round of gameplay. Here, there is shown a display of previously selected symbols 350-note that, in the example of FIG. 6A, each of the selected symbols 350 is not a feature symbol 354. As will become apparent, this specific example is not a general case. Each symbol 350 is located within a window 360 such that each window 360 is associated with a single symbol 350. In the figure, the windows 360 are shown as bordered regions, however, in implementations the windows 360 may not be visually defined, or the visual definition may be dependent on a game state. The windows 360 correspond to symbol display positions, previously described. It should be understood that the previously determined game state may instead correspond to a different state of the gaming device 200-for example, a menu or intro screen before a player begins gameplay (such as, from a game selection screen).

[0051] At step 501, an instance of gameplay is performed. Gameplay includes selection of symbols 350 for each window 360, for example according to the embodiment of FIG. 4. The method proceeds to step 502, where a game result is determined and any relevant prize award made-for example, as described further below with reference to FIGs 7A-7C.

[0052] A check is then made, at step 503, as to whether one or more feature symbols 354 have been selected for display on the display 240 of the gaming device 200. In the event that no feature symbol 354 has been selected, the method continues to step 505.

[0053] However, if the result of step 503 is the determination that one or more feature symbols 354 are selected for display, the method proceeds to step 504. FIG. 6B shows an example result of a round of gameplay where one or more (here one) feature symbols 354 are selected as a result of the symbol selection method. As can be seen, the display 240 comprises the feature symbol 354 and remaining symbols 350 each located within a respective window 360.

[0054] At step 504, the gaming device 200 is controlled such as to assign a modified status to the, or each, window 360 comprising and/or neighboring a feature symbol 354. A window 360 associated with a modified status is herein referred to as a hot spot window 361 (shown in FIG. 6C, discussed below). One or multiple neighboring hot spot windows 361 associated with the same feature symbol 354 are herein referred to as a hot spot zone. Also, at step 504, each relevant adjacent window 360 to the window 360 (or windows 360) comprising a feature symbol 354 is also assigned a modified status. In an embodiment, the modified status is associated with a game instance indicator (e.g. a count-down timer) such that the particular game instance in which the modified status was assigned can be determined. Which particular windows 360 are assigned a modified status is determined according to a predefined window selection rule.

[0055] In an embodiment, the window selection rule specifies that an adjacent window 360 is a window 360 located directly above or below the window 360 comprising a feature symbol 354. In an embodiment, window selection rule specifies that an adjacent window 360 is a window 360 located directly to the left or to the right of the window 360 comprising a feature symbol 354. In an embodiment, window selection rule specifies that an adjacent window 360 is a window 360 located directly along a diagonal in one of four directions of the window 360 comprising a feature symbol 354. In an embodiment, two or more (for example, all) of the previously described window selection rules are combined-for example, the window selection rule specifics that each window 360 directly above, below, to the left, to the right, and along a diagonal are assigned a modified status. In an embodiment, the window selection rule specifies that an adjacent window 360 may be a wrap-around window 360-that is, when there is no window 360 directly adjacent a feature symbol 354 in a horizontal and/or vertical direction (depending on implementation), the window 360 furthest in the opposite direction is selected as a hot spot window 361.

[0056] Next, at step 505, the gaming device 200 determines whether any previous hot spot window 361 (that is, a hot spot window 361 of a directly preceding game state) is to have its modified status removed-that is, reverted back to a standard window 360. In an embodiment, the gaming device 200 determines whether an end condition has been met for each hot spot window 361 and, if so, removes the modified status.

[0057] In an embodiment, an end condition corresponds to a defined number of instances of gameplay since the modified status was assigned (e.g. as determined by the game instance indicator)-this may be set, for example, such that each hot spot window 361 expires after three game instances. Where a modified status is again assigned to a hot spot window 361 before it expires, the end condition is re-calculated from the newest modified status. Advantageously, each hot spot window 361 is associated with its own end condition-that is, the end conditions may vary between different hot spot windows 361 and may even vary between hot spot windows 361 within the same hot spot zone.

[0058] In another embodiment, the end condition is common for all hot spot windows 361 (and hence common for all hot spot zones). For example, the end condition is based on the most recent round of gameplay where a feature symbol 354 was present (e.g. a predefined number, such as three, rounds from the most recent comprising a feature symbol 354). In this way, the presence of a feature symbol 354 in a game result can act to reset the end condition for existing hot spot windows 361 thus prolonging the total time that said existing hot spot windows 361 are present.

[0059] The method then proceeds to step 506, where a determination of a modifier for each hot spot window 361 is made. In one embodiment, step 505 corresponds to assigning a predefined modifier to each hot spot window 361 (i.e. each window 360 associated with a modified status). For example, the modifier may be a predefined multiplier (e.g. a "x1" multiplier or alternatively a "x2" multiplier).

[0060] In another embodiment, the modifier is dynamically determined (at least in part) based on whether or not the particular hot spot window 361 is associated with multiple feature symbols 354. In one example, the multiple feature symbols 354 are selected in successive rounds of game play before any expiry. Visually, this corresponds to whether or not the window 360 was previously displayed (i.e. directly preceding the current instance of gameplay) as a hot spot window 361. If the window 360 was not previously a hot spot window 361, it is provided the smallest of a set of modifiers-for example, a modifier of x1. If the window 360 was previously a hot spot window 361, it is assigned the next modifier in a set of modifiers (that is, the next with respect to its previous modifier). In another example, the multiple feature symbols 354 may be selected for display during the same round of game play. Visually, this corresponds to the partial overlap of two or more simultaneous hot spot zones.

[0061] In an embodiment, each modified status is associated with a value indicating the number of times a modified status has been applied (without subsequent removal). For example, where a modified status is applied to a window 360 not having a modified status, its value is 1 (or other value indicating a first instance of modified status). Should another modified status be applied to that same window 360 (now a hot spot window 361), the modified status is updated to a value of 2 (or other value indicating a second instance of modified status). Generally, there are as many values of modified status as there are modifiers.

[0062] In one example, the set of modifiers (in order from smallest to largest) comprises: "xl", "x2", "x4". The set may be unlimited, but it is preferred that it comprises a maximum modifier. In the case in which the previous modifier is the maximum modifier, then the new modifier is simply the maximum modifier from the set. For example, a first selection of a modifier may be "xl", a subsequent selection is "x2", and a subsequent selection "x4". Of course, other sets may comprise different modifiers, for example, "xl","x2", "x3".

[0063] FIG. 6C shows an example of hot spot windows 361 as a result of the instance of gameplay shown in FIG. 6B. Here, there are nine resulting hot spot windows 361 forming a hot spot zone.

[0064] At step 507 (referring back to FIG. 5), a visual indication 370 is determined and presented on the display 240 for each hot spot window 361 (as shown in FIG. 6C). In an embodiment, the primary display 240 (or, optionally where applicable, the secondary display 242) is configured to display a visual indication 370 of a number of "rounds" remaining associated with the one or more displayed hot spot windows 361. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, where the same end condition is applicable to all hot spot windows 361, a single number is shown as the visual indication 370 (optionally with descriptive elements such as text or graphical cues) indicating the number of instances of gameplay remaining before the end condition is met. In another embodiment (not shown), the visual indication 370 is at least partly determined according to a current modifier associated with the particular hot spot window 361. For example, there may be a particular predefined visual indication 370 associated with each multiplier of the set of multipliers-in this case, the visual indication 370 for a particular hot spot window 361 is determined to be the visual indication 370 associated with the multiplier determined for that hot spot window 361 at step 505. For example, different colors and/or sizes of window border may be utilized and/or different colors of the interiors of the hot spot windows 361. Where a hot spot window 361 was present after the previous instance of game play, it may be that the determined visual indication 370 is simply the same as the previous round. However, it is envisaged that the visual indication 370 may be modified in accordance with a number of instances of game play since assigning of the modified status to the particular hot spot window 361. A key may be displayed indicating which hot spot windows 361 are associated with which end conditions (e.g. based on the color of the hot stop windows). In an embodiment, each hot spot window 361 is associated with its own visual indicator 370 (e.g. a number displayed in conjunction with the hot spot window 361 indicating how many instances of gameplay remain before that hot spot window 361 reverts to a normal window 360).

[0065] FIG. 6D shows an example of a game result subsequent to that shown in FIG. 6B, where a new feature symbol 354 results-as can be seen, there is an overlap between windows 360 which will be newly turned into hot spot windows 361 and those that already were hot spot windows 361. Thus, in FIG. 6E, the result is shown with two different hot spot windows 361A and 361B (the former associated with a first modifier and the latter with a different, larger modifier). Note that, in this figure, the larger modifier is also displayed ("x2").

[0066] Additionally, at step 507, any previous window 360 displayed as a hot spot window 361 that has had its modified status removed will have its visual appearance returned to a standard window 360 (i.e. it will no longer appear as a hot spot window 361).

[0067] As a result of steps 504-507, the display of windows 360 has been updated to reflect the new hot spot windows 361 (if present) resulting from the present instance of gameplay. The display will typically also include hot spot windows 361 carried over from the previous instance of gameplay (i.e. those not removed as a result of step 505).

[0068] The gaming device 200 can then return to step 500, that is, prepared for another instance of gameplay. However, as a result of steps 504-507, in most cases, the display will comprise a different arrangement of hot spot windows 361 unless no new hot spot windows 361 have been assigned and no previous hot spot window 361 removed.

[0069] It should be understood that various of steps 500-507 can be undertaken in different orders without affecting the substance of gameplay as perceived by the player of the gaming device 200. For example, step 505 may occur directly after step 502-that is, removal of hot spot windows 361 may occur before determination of new or modified hot spot windows 361.

[0070] The hot spot windows 361 are generally associated with a change in the possible gameplay outcomes for the player of the gaming device 200. That is, the presence of one or more hot spot windows 361 and the associated multipliers can affect the payout to the player (see step 502) for particular arrangements of selected symbols 350. For example, in a general sense, if one or more symbols 350 are present at the location of a hot spot window 361 and associated with a prize, that prize can be modified according to the associated modifier(s).

[0071] In an embodiment, as described with reference to FIGs 7A-7C, the reel strips 341-345 comprise one or more configurable symbols 355 (see FIG. 7A) preferably, there will be at least one configurable symbol 355 on each reel strip 341 345 comprising a feature symbol 354 (e.g. in the described embodiments, the internal reel strips 342-344 will each comprise at least one configurable symbol 355). There can be different configurable symbols 355 utilized associated with different outcomes-for the purpose of this disclosure, the different configurable symbols 355 are visually distinguishable and may be associated with different prizes.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 7B, in an embodiment, the configurable symbols 355 comprise a dynamically generated visual component 900 as well as a static visual component 901-for example, the dynamic visual component 900 may have the appearance of an overlay applied to the static visual component 901 (although this is not intended to be a limiting example). In the examples shown of configurable symbols 355, the dynamic visual component 900 includes a variable prize value, and such a configurable symbol 355 may be known as a Cash-on-Reel (COR) symbol.

[0073] The variable prize value, according to this embodiment, comprises a numerical representation 900 of the prize associated with the particular configurable symbol 355. This prize may be varied between instances of gameplay, and this is represented by an updated (i.e. newly generated) appearance of the configurable symbol 355. In an example implementation, the prize associated with one or more particular configurable symbols 355 is dependent on a denomination selection made by the player. In another embodiment, which can be combined with the preceding example, the configurable symbol 355C corresponds to a game prize. Other mechanisms are possible for determining a prize. In one example, a prize is randomly determined in response to a prize trigger event-the prize may be randomly determined from within a predefined range or may be randomly selected from a plurality of predefined prizes.

[0074] FIG. 7C shows a method for determining a prize award associated with the presence of one or more configurable symbols 355 as a result of an instance of gameplay-for example, the method is instigated as step 502 of the method of FIG. 5. It should be noted that the determination of a prize award is separate to any prize that may be awarded as a result of other game rules not included within the present method. At step 700, a check is made of the resulting arrangement of symbols 350 includes one or more configurable symbols 355-if not, the method ends.

[0075] Otherwise, at step 701, the method proceeds to check if any of those one or more configurable symbols 355 are located within a hot spot window 361-again, if nhot, the method ends. In practice, steps 700 and 701 may be combined into a single check.

[0076] However, where at least one configurable symbol 355 is located within a hot spot window 361, the method proceeds to step 702. Here, for each configurable symbol 355 located within a hot spot window 361, a prize award is determined. FIG. 7D shows an example of a configurable symbol 355 located in a hot spot window 361. Also, in FIG. 7D is a configurable symbol 355 not present in a hot spot window 361-this configurable symbol 355 is not associated with a payout in relation to the present embodiment but may be associated with another payout due to additional game rules.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 7E, generally, the prize award is determined according to the prize as modified by the associated hot spot window 361 modifier. For example, the configurable prize may be a numerical value (e.g. "1000") and the modifier may be a multiplier (e.g. "x2")-according to this example, the prize award will be "2000" rather than "1000"). It should be understood that different options are possible for determining the prize award.

[0078] Subsequently, at step 703, the aggregate prize award (equal to the sum or other combination of each prize award) is awarded to the player. The method then ends.

[0079] In an embodiment, the configurable symbols 355 are also associated with a bonus game (or, alternatively, one or more bonus games)-that is, a different game to a main game. In an embodiment, the main game corresponds to a reel game comprising feature symbols 354 and configurable symbols 355 as herein described. It is assumed that the bonus game is a reel game that is initiated in response to a trigger event in the primary (or main) game. In one embodiment, one or more of the reel strips 341, 342, 343, 344, 345 of the main game each comprise one or more qualifier symbols (not shown). Relevantly, when a predefined number of qualifier symbols are present as part of a game result (e.g. five qualifier symbols), then a bonus game may be triggered. In an embodiment, either or both of the feature symbols 354 and configurable symbols 355 additionally correspond to being qualifier symbols-that is, the function of the qualifier symbols 356 is additionally attributed to these symbols 354 and/or 356.

[0080] In a variation of the embodiments described, the end condition may correspond to a fixed game instance round. This may be applicable where the present embodiments are implemented as bonus games with a specific number of game instances. In this case, the end condition may be the end of the bonus game.

[0081] While the invention has been described with respect to the figures, it will be appreciated that many modifications and changes may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Any variation and derivation from the above description and figures are included in the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (50)

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A gaming device comprising: a display; a processor; and a memory comprising a plurality of reel strips, each comprising a plurality of game symbols, wherein at least one instance of a feature symbol is present on at least one of the plurality of reel strips and wherein at least one instance of a configurable symbol is present on at least one same or adjacent reel strip to the, or each, reel strip comprising an instance of the feature symbol and interfaced with the processor and comprising program code configured to cause the processor to: undertake gameplay of a primary game, wherein an instance of gameplay comprises determining a game state defining a display of a selection of the symbols of the plurality of reel strips, wherein each symbol is uniquely associated with a window; determine, after a particular instance of gameplay, whether one or more feature symbols are present within the resulting game state and, if present: determine one or more windows for modification based on the locations of the one or more windows associated with the one or more displayed feature symbols according to a predefined window selection rule; and determine and apply a modified status for the, or each, window for modification according to a predefined modification rule, control the display such as to present a visual depiction of the game state; and determine, after the particular instance of gameplay, whether one or more configurable symbols are present within windows having an associated modified status and, if present: determine, for the or each said configurable symbol, a prize award based on a prize value associated with the configurable symbol and the modified status associated with the window in which the configurable symbol is located; and award the prize.

2. A gaming device according to claim 1, wherein there are at least five reel strips.

3. A gaming device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each reel strip with two adjacent reel strips comprises at least one feature symbol and wherein the remaining two reel strips do not have a feature symbol.

4. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the program code is further configured to cause the processor to: cause the display to display a modified visual representation of any window associated with a modified status.

5. A gaming device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the modified visual representation is dependent on a value of the modified status of a particular window.

6. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the modified status for each window is dependent on the presence or absence of an existing modified status for the window.

7. A gaming device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the modified status for each window is further dependent on a value of an existing modified status, where applicable.

8. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a modified status associated with a window is associated with a modifier, and wherein the program code is further configured to cause the processor to: determine a modifier to associate with a window based on a modified status being associated with the window; and associate the modifier with the window.

9. A gaming device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the prize award is determined, in part, based on the modifier associated with the modified status of the window.

10. A gaming device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the modifier is a multiplier.

11. A gaming device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the prize award for each configurable symbol located within a window associated with a modified status is calculate as equal to the prize value associated with the configurable symbol multiplied by the relevant multiplier.

12. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the modifier is determined according to a value associated with the modified status.

13. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein predefined window selection rule specifies, for a particular window having a feature symbol, that the windows for modification include: the window having the feature symbol; and/or each window horizontally adjacent to the window having the feature symbol; and/or each window vertically adjacent to the window having the feature symbol; and/or each window diagonally adjacent to the window having the feature symbol.

14. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the program code is further configured to cause the processor to: determine an end condition for each window associated with a modified status; and determine that an end condition is met for a particular window and, in response, remove the modified status from the window.

15. A gaming device as claimed in claim 14, wherein each end condition is the same and determined based on a predefined number of rounds of gameplay since at least one window had a modified status applied.

16. A gaming device as claimed in claim 14, wherein each end condition is independent of other end conditions and is determined based on a predefined number of rounds of gameplay the associated window had a modified status applied.

17. A gaming device as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the predefined number of rounds is 3.

18. A gaming device as claimed in claim 14, wherein each end condition is the same and corresponds to an end of gameplay of the game.

19. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the program code is further configured to cause the processor to: present, on the display, a visual indicator of the end condition for each window associated with a modified status.

20. A gaming device as claimed in claim 19 when dependent on claim 15, wherein the visual indication of the end condition corresponds to a common numerical or other indication of a number of rounds left before the end condition is met.

21. A gaming device as claimed in claim 19 when dependent on claim 16, wherein the visual indication of each end condition corresponds to a numerical or other indication of a number of rounds left before that particular end condition is met.

22. A gaming device as claimed in claim 21, wherein each visual indication is displayed in a region of the display commensurate with the corresponding window.

23. A gaming device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the, or each, configurable symbol instance is associated with a prize and wherein the configurable symbol comprises a static visual component and a dynamic visual component, and wherein the dynamic visual component is, at least in part, dependent on the associated prize.

24. A gaming device as claimed in claim 23, including at least a configurable symbol instance associated with a first prize value and another configurable symbol instance associated with a second prize value, wherein the first prize and second prize are, at least in part, determined by a player selection, and wherein numeric representations of the first prize and second prize form at least part of the dynamic visual component of the respective configurable symbol instance.

25. A gaming device as claimed in claim 23 or claim 24, including at least a configurable symbol instance associated with a game prize.

26. A method of gameplay on a gaming device, comprising the steps of: maintaining, in a memory of the gaming device, a plurality of reel strips, each comprising a plurality of game symbols, wherein at least one instance of a feature symbol is present on at least one of the plurality of reel strips and wherein at least one instance of a configurable symbol is present on at least one same or adjacent reel strip to the, or each, reel strip comprising an instance of the feature symbol; undertaking an instance of gameplay, comprising: determining a game state defining a display of a selection of the symbols of the plurality of reel strips, wherein each symbol is uniquely associated with a window; controlling a display of the gaming device such as to present a visual depiction of the game state; determining that at least one feature symbol is present within the resulting game state and, in response: determining one or more windows for modification based on the locations of the one or more windows associated with the one or more displayed feature symbols according to a predefined window selection rule; and determining and applying a modified status for the, or each, window for modification according to a predefined modification rule, and/or determining that one or more configurable symbols are present within windows having an associated modified status and, in response: determining, for the or each said configurable symbol, a prize award based on a prize value associated with the configurable symbol and the modified status associated with the window in which the configurable symbol is located; and awarding the prize.

27. A method as claimed in claim 26, wherein there are at least five reel strips.

28. A method as claimed in claim 26 or claim 27, wherein each reel strip with two adjacent reel strips comprises at least one feature symbol and wherein the remaining two reel strips do not have a feature symbol.

29. A method as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 28, further comprising the step of: causing the display to display a modified visual representation of any window associated with a modified status.

30. A method as claimed in claim 29, wherein the modified visual representation is dependent on a value of the modified status of a particular window.

31. A method as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the modified status for each window is dependent on the presence or absence of an existing modified status for the window.

32. A method as claimed in claim 31, wherein the modified status for each window is further dependent on a value of an existing modified status, where applicable.

33. A method as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 32, wherein a modified status associated with a window is associated with a modifier, and further comprising the steps of: determining a modifier to associate with a window based on a modified status being associated with the window; and associating the modifier with the window.

34. A method as claimed in claim 33, wherein the prize award is determined, in part, based on the modifier associated with the modified status of the window.

35. A method as claimed in claim 34, wherein the modifier is a multiplier.

36. A method as claimed in claim 35, wherein the prize award for each configurable symbol located within a window associated with a modified status is calculate as equal to the prize value associated with the configurable symbol multiplied by the relevant multiplier.

37. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the modifier is determined according to a value associated with the modified status.

38. A method as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 37, wherein predefined window selection rule specifies, for a particular window having a feature symbol, that the windows for modification include: the window having the feature symbol; and/or each window horizontally adjacent to the window having the feature symbol; and/or each window vertically adjacent to the window having the feature symbol; and/or each window diagonally adjacent to the window having the feature symbol.

39. A method as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 38, further comprising the steps of: determining an end condition for each window associated with a modified status; and determining that an end condition is met for a particular window and, in response, remove the modified status from the window.

40. A method as claimed in claim 39, wherein each end condition is the same and determined based on a predefined number of rounds of gameplay since at least one window had a modified status applied.

41. A method as claimed in claim 39, wherein each end condition is independent of other end conditions and is determined based on a predefined number of rounds of gameplay the associated window had a modified status applied.

42. A method as claimed in claim 40 or claim 41, wherein the predefined number of rounds is 3.

43. A method as claimed in claim 39, wherein each end condition is the same and corresponds to an end of gameplay of the game.

44. A method as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 43, further comprising the step of: presenting, on the display, a visual indicator of the end condition for each window associated with a modified status.

45. A method as claimed in claim 44 when dependent on claim 40, wherein the visual indication of the end condition corresponds to a common numerical or other indication of a number of rounds left before the end condition is met.

46. A method as claimed in claim 44 when dependent on claim 41, wherein the visual indication of each end condition corresponds to a numerical or other indication of a number of rounds left before that particular end condition is met.

47. A method as claimed in claim 21, wherein each visual indication is displayed in a region of the display commensurate with the corresponding window.

48. A method as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 47, wherein the, or each, configurable symbol instance is associated with a prize and wherein the configurable symbol comprises a static visual component and a dynamic visual component, and wherein the dynamic visual component is, at least in part, dependent on the associated prize.

49. A method as claimed in claim 48, including at least a configurable symbol instance associated with a first prize value and another configurable symbol instance associated with a second prize value, wherein the first prize and second prize are, at least in part, determined by a player selection, and wherein numeric representations of the first prize and second prize form at least part of the dynamic visual component of the respective configurable symbol instance.

50. A method as claimed in claim 48 or claim 49, including at least a configurable symbol instance associated with a game prize.

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354

Feature Feature

354 354

Feature

FIG. 3

Begin gameplay 500

Perform round of gameplay 2020239714

501

Determine result and award prize(s) 502

Any feature YES Assign modified symbols status to windows present? 504 503

NO Det. hot spot status(es) for removal 505

Determine modifiers 506

Determine visual indication(s) 506

FIG. 5

Key:

350 360 240

FIG. 6A

2020239714

Key:

354 360

350

FIG. 6B

Rounds Remaining: 370 3

240 2020239714

360

354 361

350

FIG. 6C

Rounds Remaining: 370 3

240 2020239714

360

354 361

350

FIG. 6D

Rounds Remaining: 370 3

240 2020239714

x2 x2

x2 x2

x2 x2

360 361A

354 361B

350

FIG. 6E

341 342 343 344 345 2020239714

CON. 355

CON. 355

CON. 355

Feat. 354

Feat. 354

Feat. 354

FIG. 7A

2020239714

1000

901

900

5000

901

900

MINOR

901

FIG. 7B

Are there configurable No symbols? 2020239714

700

YES End

Are there conf. symbols No on hot spot windows? 701

YES

Determine prize 702

Aware prize 703

FIG. 7C

Rounds Remaining: 370 3

240 2020239714

1000

5000

360 361

355

350

FIG. 7D

Rounds Remaining: 570 3

240 2020239714

x2 x2

1000 x2 x2

5000 x2 x2

360 361A 355 354 361B

350

FIG. 7E