JP2019523669A - Game method, system and machine including skill score - Google Patents

Abstract

The described embodiment includes a display, a memory storing a set of game instructions, at least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from a player, and accessing and executing instructions stored in the memory A game controller configured to display the game of at least one skill on the display and operate the game of skill by operating the at least one input mechanism. In order to allow a player to control an avatar, and in response to a trigger event, determine a skill score based on at least one aspect of the skill game's avatar performance and the set of game instructions; And from the prize pool based on the skill score Generally related to the game machine to determine the monetary compensation should be awarded to the layer. [Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present disclosure relates to an improved gaming system and methods, systems, and machines for improved gaming.

  Reel style gaming machines allow players to place bets on symbols that appear on real or virtual reels that present a prize to the player based on the combination of symbols that appear. These games are attractive to players as a way to earn cash or credit. However, reel style games have limited appeal to some players.

  It is desirable to address or ameliorate one or more disadvantages or shortcomings associated with conventional methods, systems and machines for games, or to provide at least a beneficial alternative to them.

  Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like contained herein acknowledges that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art foundation. It is not taken as common general knowledge in the field relevant to this disclosure if it exists before the priority date of each claim of this application.

  Throughout this specification, variations such as the word "comprise", or "comprises", or "comprising" are used to describe the described element, whole or step, or It will be understood that the inclusion of a group of elements, whole bodies or steps is meant to mean the exclusion of any other element, whole body or steps, or group of elements, whole bodies or steps.

Some embodiments are:
Display,
A memory for storing a set of game instructions;
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in the memory;
The game controller
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Allowing a player to control an avatar to run the game of the skill by manipulating the at least one input mechanism;
In response to a triggering event, determining a skill score based on at least one aspect of the avatar performance of the skill game and the set of game instructions; and
The present invention relates to a game machine that determines a monetary reward to be awarded to a player from a prize pool based on the skill score.

  According to some embodiments, the game controller is configured to present at least one chance game on the display in response to receiving user input. In some embodiments, at least one prize pool is increased based on player spending in the chance game.

  According to some embodiments, the game controller is configured to present the game of the at least one skill in response to at least one result of the at least one chance game. In some embodiments, the game controller is configured to present the game of the at least one skill in response to at least one result of the at least one chance game.

  In some embodiments, the game controller is configured to execute a metagame, the metagame defines at least one metagame goal, and progression through the metagame toward the at least one metagame goal is Related to the outcome of the chance game. According to some embodiments, achieving the at least one metagame goal affects at least one aspect of the game of at least one skill.

  According to some embodiments, the game controller is configured to present a game of at least one skill in response to a predetermined condition being met.

  According to some embodiments, the game controller is configured to present a user with selectable options, and the selection of the option causes the game controller to present a game of at least one skill. In some embodiments, the game controller is configured to present the user with selectable options in response to a predetermined condition being met.

  In some embodiments, the monetary reward is determined based on a correlation between the skill score and a skill score range associated with the at least one prize pool.

  According to some embodiments, the game controller is configured to randomly generate a leveling event for return to the player, and the player who was playing when the leveling event occurred may A predetermined percentage of one or more prize pools associated with the base game is awarded. According to some embodiments, the return leveling event to the player occurs before the game of skill begins to play. According to some embodiments, the percentage is between 60% and 100%. In some embodiments, the percentage is 100%.

  According to some embodiments, the at least one prize pool is divided into a plurality of prize pool segments, and each prize pool segment is associated with a skill score range. In some embodiments, the value of each prize pool segment is associated with a skill score range associated with that prize pool segment.

  In some embodiments, once a prize pool segment is acquired, the prize pool segment is refilled with money from the second prize pool, and the association between each prize pool and each skill score range. Is modified so that the monetary value of each prize pool segment is associated with the skill score range associated with that prize pool segment.

  According to some embodiments, the monetary reward awarded to the player is a percentage of the amount in the prize pool, and the game controller is configured to calculate the percentage based on a skill score. In some embodiments, the skill score is determined based on the action of the skill game avatar.

  According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on the number of in-game items collected by players of the skill-based game. According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on the number of enemies in the game that have been destroyed by a player in the skill-based game. According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on the time that a player completed a task in a skill-based game. According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on the difficulty of the action sequence performed by the player of the skill-based game. According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on the damage inflicted on the enemy by the player of the skill-based game. According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on the use of in-game consumables by a player of the skill-based game. According to some embodiments, the skill score is determined based at least in part on damage incurred by a player of the skill-based game.

  In some embodiments, the game controller is further configured to determine a non-monetary reward to be awarded to the player based on the skill score.

  According to some embodiments, the trigger event is an avatar action or achievement during game play. In some embodiments, the trigger event is the completion of a feature game.

Some embodiments are methods for determining monetary rewards based on the outcome of a skill game comprising:
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display of the game console;
Enabling the player to control the avatar to execute the game of the skill by operating at least one input mechanism;
Responsive to a trigger event, determining a skill score based on at least one aspect of avatar performance in the skill game and a set of game instructions stored in memory of the gaming machine;
Determining a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from a prize pool based on the skill score;
Relates to a method comprising:

  Some embodiments further comprise presenting at least one chance game on the display in response to receiving user input. Some embodiments further comprise increasing the prize pool based on the player's spending in the chance game.

  Some embodiments further comprise presenting at least one skill game after presenting at least one chance game. Some embodiments further comprise presenting a game of at least one skill in response to at least one result of the game of at least one chance.

  Some embodiments further comprise the step of executing a metagame, wherein the metagame defines at least one metagame goal, and progress through the metagame toward the at least one metagame goal is the chance. Related to the outcome of the game.

  Some embodiments relate to computer readable media that store machine-readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the methods of some other embodiments.

Some embodiments are:
Display,
A memory for storing a set of game instructions;
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in the memory;
The game controller
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Allowing a player to control an avatar to run the game of the skill by manipulating the at least one input mechanism;
In response to a triggering event, determining a skill indicator based on at least one aspect of the avatar performance of the skill game and the set of game instructions; and
The present invention relates to a gaming machine that determines a monetary reward to be awarded to a player from a prize pool based on the skill indicator.

In the following, some embodiments will be described in detail by way of example, and the accompanying drawings referred to therein show the following matters.
1 is a graphical representation of a gaming system according to some embodiments, implemented in the form of a stand-alone gaming machine. It is a schematic block diagram of the core component of the game system of FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a game system according to some embodiments, where the game system is implemented via a network. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of software components of a gaming system according to some embodiments. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for controlling game play on a gaming machine, in accordance with some embodiments. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a character selection screen. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a virtual position selection screen. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a base game screen. FIG. 9 is a detailed diagram of the symbol set shown in FIG. 8. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a base game screen. 4 is an exemplary screenshot of a meta game task screen. FIG. 12A is an exemplary screenshot of a meta game task screen showing tasks to complete. FIG. 12B is a detailed view of an exemplary player level bar portion of the base game screen. FIG. 12C is an exemplary screenshot of a base game screen that highlights winning metagame combinations. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a feature game screen. 3 is an exemplary screenshot of a feature game multi-stage award pool. 3 is an exemplary screenshot of a feature game percentage-based prize pool. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling game play on a gaming machine according to some embodiments. 4 is an exemplary screenshot of an achievement screen. FIG. 6 is an exemplary screenshot of a feature game achievement summary display. FIG. FIG. 6 is an exemplary screenshot of a feature game warrior results display.

  The disclosed embodiments generally relate to gaming machines. The game machine of the present invention was filed on March 8, 2017 with the name of the invention "Gaming method, system and machine comprising multiple games", and is filed by the same co-pending applicant who is incorporated in its entirety by reference. It may be the same as described and disclosed in International Patent Application PCT / AU2017 / 050206. The game system can take many different forms. In a first aspect, a stand-alone gaming machine is provided in which all or most of the components required to implement a game are present in a gaming machine that can be operated by a player.

  In the second form, there are some components required to implement the game in the game machine that can be operated by the player, and some components required to implement the game are remote with respect to the game machine. To provide a decentralized architecture. For example, a “thick client” architecture can be used, where the game portion is executed on a gaming machine that can be operated by the player, and the game portion is executed remotely, such as by a game server, or “thin client” Architecture can be used, where most of the game is run remotely, such as by a game server, and the player can control the audible and / or visible game information to the player. Only receive game input from players.

  However, it will be appreciated that other arrangements are envisioned. For example, an architecture can be provided, where game machines are networked to a game server, and the respective functions of the game machine and game server can be selectively changed. For example, the gaming system can operate in a stand-alone gaming machine mode, a “thick client” or “thin client” mode, operating conditions, and others depending on the game being played.

  Regardless of form, the gaming system 100 includes several core components. At the broadest level, the core components include a player interface and a game controller. The player interface is arranged to enable interaction between the player and the game system, and for this purpose includes instructions and input / output components required by the player to play the game. For example, the input / output component may include a credit mechanism that allows a player to enter credit and receive payment, one or more displays that may include a touch screen, and a player to enter game play instructions. Can have a game play mechanism that is arranged to enable Game controllers typically include a processor arranged to communicate data with the player interface, process game play instructions, and output game player results to one or more displays. As used herein, the term “processor” is capable of processing gameplay instructions and can include any microprocessor, microcontroller, programmable logic device, or any computing device such as a personal computer or server It will be understood that these devices are generally referred to.

  Referring now to FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 generally indicates a stand-alone game system that includes a game. Hereinafter, the stand-alone game system 100 is referred to as a game machine.

  The gaming machine 100 includes a console 102 that includes all or most of the components required to implement game play, in which a player wins or loses a bet, at least during a portion of the game play. Prepare. Access to these components is via the hinged door 105. Attached to the outside of console 102 is display means in the form of at least one visual display 104 for playing one or more games. Video display 104 can be implemented as a liquid crystal display, plasma screen, or other high quality digital video display. The console 102 shown in FIG. 1 shows a single visual display 104 and more than one visual display can be on the gaming machine 100. For example, in some embodiments, the gaming machine 100 includes one visual display 104 for displaying the game being played, and artwork 120 for displaying advertisements or other material (described below). In the form of an additional visual display. In some embodiments, the additional visual display can be a video display. What is displayed on the visual display 104 depends on what is the intended goal of the display associated with the player and any other potential participants in the gaming system. In some embodiments, the plurality of gaming machines 100 can communicate with a central display screen (not shown) that displays a portion of the game play to a wider audience within the game venue. Can make it possible.

  In this embodiment, the gaming machine 100 has a haptic input for a player that interacts through contact with the gaming machine 100. This haptic input can be in the form of a combination of a push button 106 and a touch screen 108 to allow the player to play one or more games. The touch screen 108 is an electronic visual display that can detect the presence and position of a contact in the display area. The touch screen 108 can be used, for example, during game setup, user browsing, or game play between game start and game end. Specific functions of the push button are game play start, credit output, game play selection, game play completion, and the like. The mid trim 112 of the game machine 100 accommodates the push button 106.

  The haptic input can optionally or further comprise a joystick (not shown) that includes a stick that pivots on the base and informs its angle or direction relative to the device it is controlling. Tactile input is optional, or even a trackpad / touchpad (not shown), which is a pointing device that functions to translate the movement and position of the user's fingers into relative positions on the screen. Can be included. In some embodiments, the haptic input can further include a keyboard, electronic mouse, or other input mechanism. In some embodiments, the user interface can be a user-configurable interface that includes a plurality of user input options. It will be appreciated that the haptic input can include any suitable device that allows the player to generate an input signal received by the processor 202 (see FIG. 2).

  The mid trim 112 can accommodate a credit input mechanism 221 that includes a collector 114. The credit input mechanism 221 can input a coin insertion chute, a card and / or ticket reader, a magnetic read head for reading a magnetic stripe card, an electronic reader for a proximity card, a near field communication reader or a credit to a game machine. Any other form of electronic, wireless or contact that can be alternatively or additionally included.

  A payment mechanism 225 including a coin tray 116 can be mounted under the console 102 and provided for cash or other payments from the machine 100 to the player. A hopper device (not shown) is provided that dispenses coins or tokens into the coin tray 116 equal to the current total credit for the machine. Apart from the coin tray 116, the payment mechanism 225 issues tickets that are distributed by printers, notebook dispensers, near field communication transmitters, or means that enable remote credit transfers that the user can exchange for cash. A ticket dispenser for doing so may alternatively or additionally be included. Other suitable payment mechanisms can be implemented in accordance with the described embodiments, such as a player's electronically recordable identification or fund transfer to a smart card.

  The gaming machine 100 includes a top box 118 on which artwork 120 or other images can be conveyed in the form of an electronic visual display. Artwork 120 can also include physical materials such as paper, plastic banners or posters. The artwork 120 can include general information about the machine or game system, or the artwork 120 can be specifically created for a particular game played on the machine 100. Although the artwork 120 is shown as being transported over the top box 118, the artwork 120 may be in the bottom panel of the door 105, or in any other portion of the gaming machine 100 that is visible to the player, or It can also be arranged on top. In some embodiments, the artwork 120 can be a second digital display that can show, for example, jackpot information, or other supplemental video.

  The gaming machine 100 further includes an auditory portion in the form of an audio output 208 (see FIG. 2) that provides auditory feedback to the player of the gaming machine 100.

  Referring to FIG. 2, a game logic circuit 200 is illustrated. The game logic circuit 200 includes a game controller 201 (also referred to as a logic cage). The logic cage 201, as will be understood by those skilled in the gaming industry, is such as a box containing slots that guide the logic card into the proper position for electronic insertion into a backplane that is attached to the back of the cage structure. It has a mechanical structure. A logical card can include hardware configured to perform a specific function and can also include a sound card, video card, network card, hard drive, or other memory storage. The backplane includes a connector for receiving a mating connector on the logic card. The logic cage 201 and the associated logic card form one of the basic components of the game machine 100 and are fixedly housed in the cabinet of the game machine 100.

  At the heart of logic cage 201 is a processor 202, which can be a central processing unit, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit, or one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

  In this particular embodiment, processor 202 communicates with memory 204, audio control component 209, hard meter interface 206, random number generator 210, user input component 216, video display component 212, credit input component 220, and payment component 224. To operate or to access or exchange signals with it.

  Instructions and data that control the operation of processor 202 are stored in memory 204 that is in data communication with processor 202. The memory 204 typically comprises both volatile and non-volatile memory, as well as more than one type of memory. For example, the memory 204 can comprise non-volatile memory in the form of a memory card such as RAM, ROM, and CompactFlash. The RAM may comprise non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), and other forms as commonly understood in the gaming industry. The memory 204 includes a game software module 231 that stores executable code that provides a game on the gaming machine 100 when the processor 202 executes.

  In particular, the processor 202 is in the game software module 231 of the memory 204 that facilitates game play by the player via the display unit 104 and / or push buttons 106 and touch sensors 108 attached to the screen of the display unit 104. Run possible code. The game software module 231 includes executable program code that defines, among other things, game rules, defines game play sequences, communicates with external systems, monitors peripheral devices, and maintains software software code integrity. Including.

  Audio control component 209 communicates with audio output 208. The audio control component 209 can include its own digital signal processor, analog-to-digital converter, amplifier, and other circuitry necessary to transmit the output from the speaker.

  The hard meter interface 206 communicates with the hard meter 207. The hard meter 207 is stored on the hard meter for regulatory reasons, which can include values such as the sum of incoming credits in several jurisdictions and the sum of outgoing credits, for example. Game machine parameters required to be included. These values in the hard meter 207 only increase and cannot be reset or decreased.

  The random number generator 210 determines the outcome of a chance-based game played on the gaming machine 100, and triggers a return leveling event to the player for the skill-based game played on the gaming machine 100. For the purpose of determining whether to generate a random or pseudo-random number. By presenting a skill-based game on the game machine 100 and allowing the player to practice and improve their skills, the player's satisfaction can be enhanced, while a monetary prize is given to the player in the skill-based game. It becomes difficult to adjust the amount of return (RTP) given to the player by the game machine. According to the RTP leveling event (as will be described in detail below), RTP can be maintained at a desired level while enabling skill game presentation.

  In some embodiments, the random number generator 210 can be implemented in software as part of the game software module 231. In some other embodiments, the random number generator 210 can be implemented in firmware or in hardware. In some embodiments, the form taken by the random number generator 231 can be defined by game regulations.

  User input component 216 communicates with user input 218, which can include push button 106 and touch screen sensor 108, among other inputs. The received input is decoded by the user input component 216 and communicated to the processor 202.

  Video display component 212 communicates with video display unit 104. The processor 202 sends instructions to the video display component 212 in order to display the images constituting the game sequence on the video display unit 104. These images can be pre-generated images obtained by the processor 202 from the memory 204, or these images are stored in the memory 204, as described below with reference to FIG. Can be generated in real time by the processor 202 executing the code module to be executed. In some embodiments, the displayed image can be composed of pre-generated backgrounds obtained from the memory 204 in combination with an animation sequence that is generated in real time by the processor 202.

  The credit input component 220 receives a signal from the credit input mechanism 221, which can include a collector 114 in some embodiments. The credit input component 220 can use the signal to determine, for example, whether the player has provided sufficient credit to begin or continue game play.

  Payment component 224 communicates with payment mechanism 225, which can include coin tray 116. The payment component 224 sends instructions to the payment mechanism 225, which allows the payment mechanism 225 to distribute the payment to the players. Payment may be in the form of cash, tokens or tickets in some embodiments. In some embodiments, players can receive a code that they can use to collect their payments from a designated kiosk. In some embodiments, the payment amount can be transferred to a player card or account. In some embodiments, a player may be able to finish game play and request payment at various stages throughout the game. In some embodiments, a player may be able to request payment at any stage of the game. A player may be able to request payment using user input 118.

  According to some embodiments, payment component 224 may be further coupled to prize pool meter 230. The prize pool meter 230 may be external to the game controller 201 and may be external to the game console 100 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the prize pool meter 230 may be an allocated segment of the memory 204 and a portion of the feature game prize data 408, as described in detail below with reference to FIG. May be stored as

  The prize pool meter 230 may store one or more prize pool values related to the amount of money that a player can earn when playing on the gaming device 100. According to some embodiments, the prize pool meter 230 may be in further communication with the credit input component 220 and each time the gaming machine 100 accepts a bet from a player through the credit input mechanism 221. One or more values stored in the prize pool meter 230 may be incremented.

  According to some embodiments, prize pool meter 230 may store one or more values for a multi-stage prize pool and at least one value for a percentage-based prize pool. When a winning event or payment occurs, one or more of the values stored in the prize pool meter 230 may be decremented based on the amount won by the player and paid by the payment mechanism 225, or May be set to zero. According to some embodiments, a player may win the entire prize pool, in which case the prize pool may be reset to an initial value, which is zero or zero. It may be a value other than. When a winning or payment event is determined by the processor 202, the processor 202 is based on the payment component 224, at least one value stored in the prize pool meter 230, and the percentage or share determined by the processor 202. May instruct them to determine the amount of payment. For example, processor 202 may direct payment component 224 to pay 50% of a percentage-based prize pool. The payment component 224 is configured to determine an amount of money equal to 50% of the value stored as a percentage-based prize pool value in the prize pool meter 230 and pay this amount via the payment mechanism 225. There is a case. According to some embodiments, the percentage of prize pool value to be paid to the player is determined by the skill achieved by the player of the feature game, as will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. It may be determined by the processor 202 based on the score.

  In some embodiments, a player can insert an identity card or ticket into a card reader (not shown) of gaming machine 100 in order to load information onto gaming machine 100. For example, an identity card or ticket can relate to a player's account, including credits, player settings, and player progress in the game. Such an identity card can be a smart card that includes a programmed microchip, an encoded magnetic strip, or an encoded rewritable magnetic strip, where the programmed microchip or magnetic The strip is encoded with the player's identification, credit sum (or associated data), and / or other relevant information. In another embodiment, the player communicates the player's identification, credit sum (or associated data), and other relevant information to the gaming device, cell phone, radio frequency identification tag, or any other Can carry portable devices, such as suitable wireless devices.

  One or more of the method steps described in this disclosure may be implemented by a game software module 231 stored in the memory 204. The instructions stored in the game software module 231 can be executed by the processor 202 or any other processor. Further, processor 202, memory 204, game software module 231 stored therein, or a combination thereof, serves as a means for performing one or more of the method steps described herein. Can do.

  FIG. 3 illustrates a game system 300 according to an alternative embodiment. The gaming system 300 includes a network 302, which can be or include, for example, an Ethernet, power line, multimedia over Coax (MoCA), WiFi, or other type of network. Network 302 may also be a wide area network (“WAN”), a plain old telephone system (“POTS”), a local area network (“LAN”), a wireless LAN, the Internet, or any combination thereof, and other types. A network can be provided. The game mechanism 304 is connected to the network 302. The game mechanism 304 provides a player operable interface and can be the same as the game mechanism 100 shown in FIG. 1, or simplified functionality depending on the requirements for implementing game play. Can have.

  Game machine 304 may include a game logic circuit 200 as described above with reference to FIG. Game console 304 has a console similar to console 102 that includes all or most of the components required to implement game play, at least during a portion of game play, where a player wins or loses a bet. Further can be included. Access to these components can be via a hinged door, which can be similar to the hinged door 105. Attached to the outside of the console can be display means in the form of at least one visual display, which can be similar to the display 104, playing one or more games. The display can be implemented as a liquid crystal display, a plasma screen, or other high quality digital video display. There can be more than one visual display on each gaming device 304. For example, in some embodiments, the gaming machine 304 has one visual display for displaying the game being played, and artwork 120 for displaying advertisements or other material (described below). ) Can include additional visual displays in the form of artwork. In some embodiments, the additional visual display can be a video display. What is displayed on the visual display depends on the intended goal of the display in relation to the player and any other potential participants in the game system. In some embodiments, the plurality of gaming machines 304 communicate with a central display screen (not shown) that can allow portions of game play to be displayed to a wider audience within the game venue. Can do.

  Game console 304 may include haptic input for players that interact via contact with game console 304. The haptic input can be in the form of a push button and touch screen combination similar to push button 106 and touch screen 108 to allow the player to play one or more games. The touch screen can be an electronic visual display that can detect the presence and location of a contact in the display area. The touch screen can be used, for example, during game setup, user browsing, or game play between game start and game end. The specific function of the push button can include starting game play, outputting credits, selecting game play, completing game play, and the like. The mid trim of the gaming machine 304 is similar to the mid trim 112 and can accommodate push buttons.

  The haptic input may optionally or additionally include a joystick that includes a stick that pivots on the base and informs its angle or direction relative to the device it is controlling. The haptic input can optionally include or further include a trackpad / touchpad, which is a pointing device that includes a tactile sensor that converts the movement and position of the user's finger to a relative position on the screen. In some embodiments, the haptic input can further include a keyboard, electronic mouse, or other input mechanism. In some embodiments, the user interface can be a user configurable interface having multiple user input options.

  The mid-trim of game console 304 can accommodate a credit input mechanism including a collector, similar to credit input mechanism 221 and collector 114. Credit input mechanism can input credits into coin insertion chute, card and / or ticket reader, magnetic read head to read magnetic stripe card, proximity card electronic reader, near field communication reader, or game console Any other form of electronic, wireless or contact can alternatively or additionally be included.

  A payment mechanism including a coin tray is similar to the payment mechanism 225 and coin tray 116, can be mounted under the console, and can be prepared for cash or other payments from the machine 304 to the player. A hopper device can be provided that dispenses coins or tokens into the coin tray equal to the current credit amount for the machine. Apart from the coin tray, the payment mechanism issues tickets that are distributed by printers, notebook dispensers, near field communication transmitters, or means that enable remote credit transfer that the user can exchange for cash. Alternatively or additionally may be included. Other suitable payment mechanisms can be implemented in accordance with the described embodiments, such as a player's electronically recordable identification or fund transfer to a smart card.

  Game console 304 can include a top box similar to top box 118, where artwork similar to artwork 120, or other images can be conveyed in the form of an electronic visual display. The artwork can also include physical materials such as paper, plastic banners or posters. The artwork can include general information about the machine or game system, or the artwork can be specifically created for a particular game played on the machine 304. Although the artwork is shown to be held on the top box, the artwork is placed in or on the bottom panel of the door, or any other part of the gaming console 304 that is visible to the player. It is also possible. In some embodiments, the artwork can be a second digital display that can show, for example, jackpot information, or other supplemental video.

  The gaming machine 304 further includes an auditory portion in the form of an audio output 208 (see FIG. 2) that provides auditory feedback to the player of the gaming machine 304.

  In the thick client embodiment, the game server 308 implements the portion of the game that is played by the player using the gaming device 304, and the gaming device 304 implements the portion of the game. With respect to this embodiment, when both the game server 308 and the game machine 100 implement a game portion, they collectively provide game controllers having functions similar to the controller 201. Database management server 310 can manage storage of game programs and associated data for download or access by game device 304 within database 318.

  In the thin client embodiment, the game server 308 implements most or all games played by the player using the gaming machine 304, and the gaming machine 304 essentially provides only a player interface. To do. For this embodiment, the game server 308 provides a game controller. The game machine 304 receives the player commands and passes them to the game server 305, which processes them and returns the game play results to the game machine 304 for display. In a thin client embodiment, the gaming machine can be a computer terminal, such as a PC, that executes software that provides a player interface that is operable using standard computer input and output components.

  Additional servers may be provided to assist in the management of the game network 300, including, for example, a game floor management server 320 and a license server 322 for monitoring license usage for a particular game. An administrator terminal 324 is provided to allow an administrator to run the network 302 and devices connected to the network.

  The game system 300 can communicate with other game systems, other local networks such as a corporate network, and / or a wide area network such as the Internet, for example, through a firewall 330.

  In some embodiments, the functionality on the server side of the network can be distributed via a plurality of different physical computers. For example, functional software elements can operate on one server as a single “engine”, or a separate server can be provided. For example, the game server 308 can execute a random number generator engine. Alternatively, a separate random number generator server can be provided. Further, in some embodiments, multiple game servers can be provided to run different games, or a single game server can be provided as required by gaming machine 304. Can run different games.

  A functional block diagram 400 illustrating the software components of the gaming machine 100 is shown in FIG. Memory 204 stores a game software module 231 that includes a number of executable code modules. The memory 204 stores various game data.

  The game data stored in the memory 204 includes symbol data 401, base game pay table data 402, meta game pay table data 403, meta game task data 404, character data 405, virtual position data 406, feature game map data 407, feature. Game prize data 408 and skill score data 409 are included. In some embodiments, the memory 204 stores information about one or more game themes, or game scenarios that can be selected by the player of the game or can be automatically selected before the game starts. Further storage is possible. The theme can comprise a number of conceptually linked game aspects that contribute to the overall appearance / or style of the game, as well as specific appearances of various aspects of the game, as described below. A scenario can be linked to a game theme, or a game theme can be linked to a scenario, and the scenario can have game style, game goals, and game storyline details.

  The symbol data 401 can include data related to symbols displayed on the visual display unit 104 of the game machine 100 during the base game. For example, a specific image used for each symbol can be stored, as well as an identification code for the symbol and the value of the symbol in the base game. The visual appearance of the symbol can depend on the theme of the game.

  The base game pay table data 402 may include data related to a pay table used for a base game played on the game machine 100. The base game paytable data 402 can be used to calculate the total amount of points, credits or other prizes earned by the player of the gaming machine 100 when playing the base game. The base game paytable data 402 can be used to determine the total amount earned based on the combination of symbols that appear on the visual display 104. The base game paytable data 402 can relate to the symbol data 401 as a total amount earned by the player as determined by the value of the symbol as stored in the symbol data 401.

  The meta game pay table data 403 may include data relating to a pay table used for a meta game played on the game machine 100. The paytable data 403 can be used to calculate the total amount of points, credits or other prizes earned by the player of the gaming machine 100 when playing the metagame. The paytable data 403 can be used to determine the total amount to be earned based on the combination of symbols appearing on the visual display 104. The meta game pay table data 403 can relate to the symbol data 401. In some embodiments, the metagame pay table data 403 can also be related to the base game paytable data 402, so the metagame results can be related to the base game results.

  The meta game task data 404 may include data related to a task that is completed by a player during a meta game played on the game machine 100. For example, the metagame task data 404 may include information about the number of tasks that the player needs to complete before receiving a prize or obtaining a particular level. The task data 404 can further include information about the result of the symbol that can cause the task to be determined to be completed. In some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 is metagame paytable data 403 to allow completion tasks that are completed based on results as determined from the metagame paytable data 403 to be completed. Can be related to. The metagame task data 404 can also be related to the position data 406 and the character data 405 where the particular task to be completed can depend on the position and character selected by the player. In some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 can be related to game themes or game scenario data in the same manner as or in place of the location data 406. Tasks can also depend on the current theme of the game. The game theme can be changed while playing the game. For example, when a player completes one or more metagame goals and feature games at a particular map location (including a particular associated theme), the player may move to another map location with a different associated theme Can be determined. In some alternative embodiments, game themes and / or scenarios may be selectable by the player independently of position or for position alternatives.

  The character data 405 can include data related to a character selected by the player in order to play the game on the game machine 100. Character data 405 may include information about available characters including character name, character appearance, and character's initial skill level. In some embodiments, the character data 405 includes data relating to the character selected by the player and any modified attributes of the character, such as improved levels achieved through game play, or increased skill sets. Can be included. The characters available for a particular game can depend on the theme of the game. In some embodiments, the character can be an avatar or player persona with a graphical representation. The avatar can be a human, animal, fictional presence, vehicle, graphical representation of an object, or other type of graphical representation in some embodiments.

  The virtual position data 406 can include data related to a virtual position selected by the player in order to play the game on the game machine 100. The virtual location data 406 can include information about available locations, including location names, one or more images of the locations, and characteristics about the locations. The virtual position data 406 can be associated with the character data 405 if the available character can depend on the selected position, or the selected position can depend on the available character. . The virtual position data 406 can also be related to the metagame task data 404, where the tasks presented during the metagame can depend on the position selected. In addition, the virtual position data 406 can be associated with the symbol data 401, where the symbols presented during the base game can depend on the position selected. The current theme of a particular game can depend on the game's current selected virtual location. Alternatively, the locations available for a particular game can depend on the theme of the game. In some embodiments, the virtual position can be changed based on the scenario selected by the player. In some embodiments, the same virtual location can be used for all of a number of game scenarios or some of the number.

  The feature game map data 407 can include data related to a map of game play positions for feature games played on the game machine 100. The feature game map data 407 can include information about the layout of feature game positions, including positions where game objects can be placed in virtual positions. If the feature game theme can be determined based on the selected virtual location, or the selected virtual location can be determined based on the feature game theme, the feature game map data 407 is the virtual location data 406. Can be related to. The feature game map data 407 can be further related to the character data 405 when the feature game position can be determined based on the character selected and the level of the character. The feature game map data 407 may also depend on the current game theme.

  The feature game prize data 408 may include data related to the total amount of points, credits, or other prizes that are earned by the player of the gaming machine 100 when playing the feature game. According to some embodiments, all of the values stored in the feature game prize or prize pool, which may contain a bit of data, measure 230. According to some embodiments, the feature game prize data may include some or all of the values stored in the prize pool meter 230. In some embodiments, feature game prize data 408 may store only non-monetary prize information. The feature game prize data 408 may include information about the number of prizes included in the feature game and the location where they are placed. The feature game prize data 408 relates to the feature game map data 407 to allow the prize to be placed at various positions within the feature game position as defined by the feature game map data 407. Can do.

  The feature game award data 408 may include information regarding the awarding of skill points during the feature game to contribute to the player's skill score. In particular, the feature game prize data 408 may include data related to a predetermined relationship between the player's behavior and the amount of skill points in the feature game, and such behavior adds or subtracts from the player's skill score. May affect. For example, the feature game prize data 408 is collected by the player in the feature game as to whether skill points should be added or subtracted from the skill score value of the player stored in the skill score data 409. The number of items in the game, the number of enemies in the game that were killed by the player in the feature game, the time that the player completed the task in the feature game, the action sequence or movement difficulty performed by the player in the feature game, the feature The amount of damage inflicted by the player in the game, the amount of in-game consumables used by the player in the feature game, and the player incurred in the feature game Based on the amount of image, there are cases specified.

  The skill score data 409 may store one or more skill score values related to the player's performance in the feature game. According to some embodiments, individual skill score values may be stored for each avatar that the player uses in the feature game. In some embodiments, only a single skill score may be stored for each player. According to some embodiments, the skill score may only exist for the length of the feature game and may be reset each time the feature game ends. According to some alternative embodiments, the previously achieved skill score (or the remainder thereof, or a percentage of that score) may persist over the duration of multiple feature games. As described above, when the processor 202 is configured to add or subtract points to the skill score value stored in the skill score data 409 based on the relationship defined by the feature game prize data 408 There is.

  In this specification, the skill score relates to a score, evaluation, grade, scale, level, means, degree, or indicator, which is determined based on an evaluation of the player's performance in the feature game. The skill score may be a skill indicator. According to some embodiments, the skill score or skill indicator is stored as a number, such as the number of points earned by the player or the numerical level reached, corresponding to the degree of player performance in the feature game. There is a case. In some embodiments, skill scores or skill indicators may be stored as letters, words or descriptions that correspond to the degree of player performance in a feature game.

  In some embodiments, the gaming machine 100/304 may have multiple themes for the overall theme for all game play and different parts or stages of base game play and / or meta game play and / or feature game play. You can have sub-themes.

  In some embodiments, the code modules in the game software module 231 include a base game module 411, a metagame module 412, a feature game module 413, a character generation module 414, a virtual position generation module 415, a feature game map generation module 416, And other code modules.

  Base game module 411 may be executable by processor 202 to cause a base game to be displayed on visual display 104, which may be a reel type game in some embodiments. The base game has either chance that a symbol subset, such as a two-dimensional array of symbols, with or without the appearance of a spinning reel, is randomly selected from a larger symbol set for display on the visual display 104. Can be a base game. The displayed symbol subset is randomly selected for the base game, and the symbol set is sized to allow a reasonable degree of variation between the selected symbols over a significant number of instances of symbol subset generation. A symbol subset can include multiple instances of the same symbol.

  The base game module 411 can be executed when the player uses the user input 218 to start game play. The base game module 411 can use a credit input mechanism 221, an input mechanism 106, and a user input 218 to allow a player to place a bet or wager, and a random number generator 210. Can be used to determine random game results. Executing the base game module 411 may cause the processor 202 to determine whether the player has earned any credit or other prize using the base game paytable data 402. Next, the processor 202 can cause the game machine 100 to transfer to a player related to any prize using the payment mechanism 225.

  The metagame module 412 may be executable by the processor 202 to cause the metagame to be shown on the visual display 104. In some embodiments, the metagame can include reel-based games and can use the same reels used for base games. A metagame can be any chance-based game, in which a subset of symbols, such as a two-dimensional array of symbols, with or without the appearance of a spinning reel. Randomly selected from a larger symbol set for display on 104. The symbol set in which the displayed symbol subset is randomly selected for the metagame is sized to allow a reasonable degree of variation between the selected symbols over a significant number of instances of symbol subset generation. A symbol subset can include multiple instances of the same symbol.

  In some embodiments, the metagame module 412 can be executed when a player initiates game play using the user input 218. The metagame module 412 can have a series of tasks that must be completed. In some embodiments, task completion depends on the appearance of a particular symbol or combination of symbols in a randomly generated symbol subset in the base game. For example, a particular symbol or combination of symbols that appears as part of a base game can contribute to the completion of the task. Thus, although the prize symbol combination in the base game may not be the prize symbol combination in the meta game, the base game and the meta game may depend on the same randomly generated symbol subset. In other words, the same symbol subset on which the results of the base game and the meta game are based can give different results to the base game and the meta game, respectively. For example, a prize result in the base game may not correspond to a prize result in the meta game, and a prize result in the meta game may not correspond to a prize result in the base game. In addition, the prize results in the base game provide monetary rewards, and the prize results in the metagame are non-monetary, such as a level increase or skill or attribute increase, such as a player's character promotion to a character achievement milestone. Reward. Non-monetary rewards earned in a metagame can lead to a greater likelihood of earning monetary rewards in a skill-based feature game, such as:

  The rule criteria and paradigm for determining the award result in the meta game may be different from the rule and paradigm for determining the award result in the base game. For example, a prize result in a meta game can depend on the appearance of a unique symbol between randomly generated symbol subsets, not necessarily depending on the combination of symbols present in the symbol subset. Furthermore, the award results in the metagame can be based on the appearance of symbol combinations between randomly generated symbol subsets that are not aligned with a particular playline (ie, a predetermined linear sequence of symbols) Can depend on the combination of symbols present in a symbol subset along a given playline to be determined to be a prize result. Executing the metagame module 412 may cause the processor 202 to determine whether the player has completed the metagame task using the metagame paytable data 403.

  Feature game module 413 may be executable by processor 202 to cause a feature game to be shown on visual display 104. In some embodiments, the feature game can be a dungeon crawl or a treasure hunt type game where the player navigates through a virtual location to acquire a credit or other prize, Have to interact. In some embodiments, the feature game module 413 can indicate a virtual position on the visual display unit 104 based on the feature game map data 407. Prizes can be distributed throughout the virtual location based on feature game prize data 408. In some embodiments, the award is hidden in a virtual chest, box, or other object that the player must open or otherwise interact to obtain the award. Can be. In some embodiments, only some of the virtual chests, boxes or other objects include a prize. In some embodiments, players may need to solve puzzles, fight bad guys, or complete other tasks to win a prize. In some embodiments, the award may include a monetary award, a non-monetary award, or both.

  According to some embodiments, the feature game module 413 may include a skill score determination submodule 417. The processor 202 executing the skill score determination submodule 417 reads data from the skill score data 409 based on the rules defined by the feature game prize data 408, operates on it, and stores data therein. May be configured as follows. For example, the feature game prize data 408 may define a rule that a player's avatar should receive 5 skill points if a specific treasure box is found and opened in a dungeon crawl type feature game. The processor 202 may execute the feature game module 413 to cause the feature game to be displayed on the visual display unit 104, and to determine the placement of the game and where the treasure chest should be placed virtually. The feature game map generation module 416 may be further executed. If the avatar finds the treasure chest, the processor 202 reads the feature game prize data 408 to determine the applicable event rules, so that any awards are awarded to the avatar for the event that found the treasure chest. Decide what to do. Based on a stored event rule that identifies what happens when a treasure chest discovery event occurs, the processor 202 determines that the award is a reward for skill points and reads the skill score data 409, The skill score determination submodule 417 is executed to add 5 points to the read value and store the new value back in the skill score data 409. The processor 202 may execute the skill score determination submodule 417 based on the occurrence of a skill score determination trigger event. This may only be the end of the feature game if the trigger event is the end or completion of the feature game. Alternatively, the processor 202 may execute the skill score determination submodule 417 throughout the feature game so that the skill score is calculated in real time. According to some embodiments, processor 202 may execute skill score determination submodule 417 each time a trigger event occurs. The trigger event may be any predetermined event according to the stored event rule for changing the skill score. This may include, for example, defeating enemies, finding hidden items, using consumables, or being generated (whether successful or unsuccessful) by a character or avatar, action or achievement.

  The character generation module 414 may be executable by the processor 202 to generate and display one or more characters on the gaming machine 100 for selection and / or modification by the player. In some embodiments, character generation is a number of configurable character attributes such as character type (eg, warrior, wizard, troll, elf, etc.), body shape, skin tone, hair color, gender and clothing. Players can be included that can generate unique characters based on them. In some alternative embodiments, pre-generated characters can be obtained from the character data 405 and displayed for the player to select. The selected character data can be stored in the character data 405.

  The virtual position generation module 415 is executed by the processor 202 and can generate and display one or more virtual positions on the game machine 100 for selection by the player. In some embodiments, one or more virtual locations can be displayed on the map. The virtual position can be generated based on the virtual position data 406.

  The feature game map generation module 416 is executed by the processor 202 and can generate and display a virtual position image on the game machine 100 in order to play the feature game. The feature game map can be generated based on the feature game map data 407.

  Referring now to FIG. 5, a flow diagram illustrating a method 500 for gaming by implementing a game in a gaming system, such as the gaming machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 and the gaming machine 304 shown in FIG. 3, is shown.

  The gaming method 500 may comprise a player's first step 501 that gives credit to the credit input mechanism 221 of the gaming machine 100 and selects a character for game play. In some embodiments, this can also include entering a name associated with the character. The processor 202 can execute a character generation module 414 that can be read from the character data 405. The character can be selected by scrolling through a series of available characters on the touch screen display of the gaming device 100. In some embodiments, the character can be created by the player by selecting from a number of different options for the character component. For example, a player may be able to generate a character by selecting from various body shapes, facial features, hairstyles, and clothes for the character they have. Characters created by the player can be stored in the character data 405.

  In some embodiments, the player may be able to select a previously created character that is stored by the system in the character data 405. In some embodiments, the player may be able to scan a ticket that stores data related to a previously created character. The gaming machine 100 can be configured to access data from a stored player account or player profile based on data read from the ticket. The processor 202 can obtain player account information based on a database lookup using data read from the ticket.

  In some embodiments, each selectable character can have a number of predetermined basic attribute ratings stored in the character data 405. For example, a character can have attributes such as strength, agility, and speed. In some embodiments, different or additional attributes can be present. For example, in some embodiments, a character can have attributes such as cleverness, dexterity, and / or endurance. These attributes can be measured on a scale of 1 to 10, for example. Each character can have a basic rating for each attribute. A particular character can have, for example, a strength rating 6, an agility rating 3, and a velocity rating 4. In some alternative embodiments, the attributes are based on different numerical scales (eg, 1 to 5, 1 to 20, or 1 to 100), or for bars, star numbers, or some other scale. It can be measured on a non-numeric scale that can be a graphic representation of the attribute. The character can have a predetermined base level. In some embodiments, all characters start at base level 1.

  In some embodiments, the selected character can be changed during game play using the user input 218. When changing characters, they can hold some or all levels and skills of a previously selected character.

  In some embodiments, the player may be able to select a virtual game play location from the map. The processor 202 can execute a virtual position generation module 415, which reads from the virtual position data 405 and displays an image of a map showing a number of selectable positions for the visual display 104. can do. For example, selectable locations can include forests, deserts, castles, and / or swamps in some embodiments. The virtual game play position can be tailored to the general theme of the game. In some embodiments, the selection of the character can determine a virtual game play start position. For example, selecting a knight character can result in game play starting in a virtual castle, selecting an elf can result in game play in a virtual forest, selecting a troll, Game play starting in a virtual swamp can be brought about.

  After performing the character selection, in some embodiments, the tutorial game can be presented to the player at step 502 based on predetermined selection criteria. In some embodiments, the tutorial game can be a feature game simulation or a feature game aspect. In some embodiments, the tutorial game may make it impossible for the player to earn any monetary reward. In some embodiments, participation in the tutorial game may include whether the player is a new or experienced player, the player's character level, the duration since the player last played the game, or other Can be determined on the basis of In some embodiments, participation in the tutorial game can be at the time of player win. If the criteria for participating in the tutorial game are met, the method moves to step 510 and presents the tutorial game to the player.

  The tutorial game can help the player become familiar with the controls used and the game play style of the feature game, as described below. In some embodiments, tutorial games can teach players new tricks, skills or combinations that they can apply during feature games. When the tutorial game ends, the method moves to step 503. If the criteria are not met, the tutorial game is not played and the method moves to step 503.

  In accordance with some embodiments, the tutorial game can be presented to the player at various stages of game play, not just at the beginning of game play. For example, in some embodiments, a tutorial game can be presented to a player when the player's character or avatar reaches a new level, learns a new skill, or receives a new weapon.

  In step 503, the base game is mounted on the game machine 100 by the processor 202 that executes the base game module 411. In some embodiments, the base game can be a reel game that can be generated using the symbol data 401. In some embodiments, the base game may be a different chance-based game in which symbols are randomly selected from a symbol set for display on the visual display 104 without the appearance of a spinning reel. it can.

  In step 504, the player causes the processor 202 to initiate an instance of the base game module 411 through interaction with the user input 118. The total bet amount by the player can be divided into two prize pools, a base game prize pool and a feature game prize pool. Some of the bets can also be deposited with the body, which is the company or organization that owns and / or controls the gaming machine 100/304. The total amount to be deposited with the body can be changed based on the rules established in the jurisdiction in which the game is played.

  When starting the base game, the processor 202 can also start the metagame module 412 based on the metagame task data 404. A metagame can include a series of tasks completed by a player. The progress and completion of the task can be determined based on the result of the base game, as determined with reference to the metagame paytable data 403.

  In step 505, the base game module 411 is executed by the processor 202 and causes the processor 202 to select a plurality of symbols obtained from the symbol data 401 for display at a plurality of display positions on the visual display unit 104. In some embodiments where the base game is a reel game, the base game module 411 can be executed by the processor 202 to cause the reels to appear to spin virtually on the visual display 104. The selection of symbols can be performed randomly, for example, by a random number generator 414.

  Further, in step 506, the game result is determined based on the symbols randomly displayed on the display. The game result can be composed of a base game result determined by the processor 202 based on the base game pay table data 402 and a meta game result determined by the processor 202 based on the meta game pay table data 403. The base game result can result in the awarding of a monetary prize to the player based on the particular symbol displayed. If the base game result results in the acquisition of a monetary reward, this can be immediately transferred to the player in some embodiments via the payment mechanism 225. In some other embodiments, the total amount earned can be stored and stored during the game session, and the total amount can be awarded at the end of the game session. The total amount earned can be taken from the base game prize pool. The total amount earned can be awarded as cash or as a credit that can be redeemed for cash.

  The metagame results are determined by the metagame module 412 based on the metagame task data 404 so that the player progresses toward completion and / or completes one or more tasks or quest sets in the metagame. Can make it possible. The progress made towards the completion of each task can be displayed to the player in the form of a ratio, percentage, progress bar, or other means that indicates promotion through the task. When the meta game result results in completion of all task sets, the player level as stored in the character data 405 can be raised. In some embodiments, some or all player attributes stored in the character data 405 can also be raised.

  In some embodiments, the metagame results may alternatively or additionally allow the player to achieve other rewards. This can be based on the completion of all tasks in the quest, each time a task is completed, or simply a combination of symbols displayed during the game. In some embodiments, the metagame results may allow the player to earn rewards, such as aesthetic rewards or skill-based rewards that may be applied to the player's character. In some embodiments, a player may earn one or more units of in-game virtual currency that the player may later be able to use to purchase aesthetic or skill-based rewards. Can be possible. For example, the game may allow players to earn in-game credits, coins, gems, tokens, or other forms of virtual currency. Different aesthetic and skill-based rewards can be purchased virtually and different sums can cost each. For example, in some embodiments, a mantle can cost 3 coins, a recovery potion can cost 5 coins, and a boot that increases a player's speed can cost 10 coins.

  In step 507, the processor 202 may determine whether a threshold that allows participation in the feature game has been reached. In some embodiments, participation in a feature game can be by a predetermined symbol or combination of symbols appearing on a reel. In some alternative embodiments, participation in a feature game is a time-based threshold (a player is playing a game, for example, at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 minutes). It can be based on reaching a spending-based threshold (a player has used a certain amount of money) or a game play threshold (a player has played a certain number of base games). A plurality of different threshold conditions can be applied in combination. In some embodiments, participation in a feature game can be semi-randomized after meeting a threshold condition, for example, where the participation is random from the range to add to the threshold or from the range for the top of the threshold. Selected. For example, for a given base spending threshold, such as 100 credits, participation in a feature game can occur at a randomly selected time between 5 and 10 minutes after reaching the base spending threshold.

  If the threshold has not been reached, game play returns to step 503, with the processor 202 resuming the base game module 411 and the player having an additional chance to bet and play the base game.

  If the threshold is reached, in an optional step 508, the player is given an opportunity to participate in the feature game. If a player chooses not to participate in a feature game, not participating can enable them to achieve more metagame goals in their own time, for example, play is performed by processor 202. Resumes the base game module 411 and returns to step 503 with the player having an additional chance to bet and play the base game. In some embodiments, the player is not given the option to enter the feature game, but is forced into the feature game once the threshold is reached in step 507. In some embodiments, the player may initially be given the option to join the game after reaching the threshold, but may subsequently be forced into the feature game after reaching a predetermined limit. is there. For example, a player may feature, for example, after a predetermined amount of time, after a predetermined number of base games have been played, when the player's character reaches a predetermined level, or after the player has used a predetermined amount or credit amount. You may be able to participate in the game.

  If the player chooses to participate in the feature game, the processor 202 determines at step 509 whether a return to player (RTP) leveling event should be generated. According to some embodiments, this step may be performed at any time before or during play of the feature game. The RTP leveling event is a randomly generated event that generates a relatively large payment to the player so that the RTP percentage of the gaming machine 100 satisfies the regulatory requirements. According to some embodiments, upon occurrence of an RTP leveling event, a predetermined percentage of one or more monetary prize pools is paid to the player, as defined by prize pool meter 230. For example, if an RTP leveling event pays a player a value between 60% and 100% (which may be 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100% of the prize pool) There is. According to some embodiments, the RTP leveling event causes the skill score determination submodule 417 to double the skill score achieved by the player by a predetermined amount that may be, for example, 100, 500, 1000, or 2000. There is. In some embodiments, the RTP leveling event may otherwise make the avatar's characteristics a benefit of the player, for example by preventing the avatar from being hurt by an attack or giving the avatar a faster speed or stronger strength. The execution of the feature game module 413 may be impacted, such as by changing to or by substantially increasing the skill score achieved by the player as compared to a regular session of the feature game.

  The processor 202 may communicate with the random number generator 210 to determine whether to generate an RTP leveling event. Random number generator 210 may determine whether to generate an RTP event with 1 / 100,000, 1 / 150,000, 1/2000, 1 / 250,000, 1 / 300,000, or other probabilities. There is a case where it is determined at random based on a predetermined probability.

  If the random number generator 210 determines that no RTP leveling event should be generated, a regular feature game is started at step 510 by the processor 202 executing the feature game module 413. The feature game can be a skill-based adventure game in some embodiments. In some alternative embodiments, skill-based feature games may include additional chance-based games.

  In this context, skill-based means that the progress of the game depends on the player's skills regarding the game rules. In other words, the game rules stored in the game software 231 define a set of conditions, and the player aims to satisfy these conditions using the user input 218. According to some embodiments, the conditions may be dynamic, in which case the player may be required to “chase” these dynamic conditions. For example, the processor 202 may change the position or behavior of a character displayed on the video display unit 104. One dynamic state may be that the player moves a player-controlled avatar close enough to the character and then has the avatar start attacking for the purpose of killing the character. . A player may use a user input 218 such as a joystick or one or more attack buttons to control an avatar. The player's skills in this example are expressed in the ability to operate the joystick and attack buttons accurately and quickly to meet the conditions. The processor 202 receives input signals generated by joysticks and buttons or other user inputs 218 and calculates the resulting behavior of the avatar in relation to conditions such as the relationship with the calculated position of other characters including the enemy. . Other player skills may include reaction time, combination skills, knowledge, vision, and many others. One aspect of a skill-based game is that the player has the impression that his or her skills can be enhanced and that further training on the gaming machine will increase the chances of winning.

  The player attributes stored in the character data 405 can contribute to the likelihood of success in the feature game, regardless of whether it is skill or chance based. For example, a character with a higher strength rating may be more likely to succeed in certain actions in a feature game (eg, breaking and opening a treasure chest) than a character with a lower strength rating.

  A feature game can allow a player to win both monetary and non-monetary prizes. A monetary prize can be paid from the feature game pool. Non-monetary prizes can have improvements to the visual appearance of characters such as new hairstyles, clothes and accessories. In some embodiments, the non-monetary prize may also have a direct or indirect improvement in the character's attribute rating. For example, a non-monetary prize can be a 10% increase in player character strength. An example of indirect improvement could be that the characters receive boots that increase their speed, or gloves that improve their dexterity. The awards available for any feature game can be determined by the processor 202 based on the feature game award data 408.

  Non-monetary prizes may also include skill points that may be involved in a player's skill score. According to some embodiments, skill points may be earned based on avatar actions or feats that are considered positive, skillful and desirable based on game rules. In some embodiments, for example, collecting in-game items, destroying enemies in the game, completing tasks quickly or within a predetermined time limit, performing difficult behavior sequences Skill points may be earned based on exhibiting a high level of skill in playing a skill-based feature game, such as damaging an enemy. Skill points may be lost based on avatar actions or feats that are considered passive, lack of skill, and undesirable based on game rules. In some embodiments, for example, tackling a task loosely or beyond a predetermined time limit, privately using in-game consumables, being damaged, and being defeated by an enemy Skill points may be lost by showing low-level skills in skill-based feature game play. Avatar actions may include inactivity or omission by an avatar, as well as other avatars, purposes or powers in the game, as well as actions performed on the avatar.

  In accordance with some embodiments, feature games can include “treasure hunt” type games, in which a player navigates through a virtual environment to obtain rewards, Have to interact. For example, in some embodiments, a player can navigate through a dungeon-type environment and open a chest to earn rewards. Each chest can be predetermined, for example, to include a monetary or non-monetary reward, or to be empty. The player can navigate through the virtual environment using user input 218.

  In some embodiments, feature games allow arena-style battle games, racing games, first person shooters, or players to control one or more virtual objects or characters via one or more virtual scenarios. Can include other types of games.

  The theme of the virtual environment that can be navigated during the feature game may depend on the virtual game play position, game scenario, and / or character level selected in step 503. For example, if the player selects a knight character, game play can be performed in a castle. A level 1 knight may need to navigate through a castle dungeon, for example, a level 2 knight can navigate through a servant's room. Higher level knights, such as level 8 knights, may need to navigate through the royal family. As the character progresses through the levels, the game play position can be changed appropriately. In some embodiments, the player may be able to select a specific virtual location for the feature game. The virtual environment can be generated in advance and stored in the feature game map data 407.

  If the random number generator 210 determines that an RTP leveling event should be generated, an RTP leveling feature game is started at step 511 by the processor 202 executing the feature game module 413. As described above with reference to step 510, in some embodiments, the RTP leveling feature game may be a skill-based adventure game. In some alternative embodiments, skill-based feature games may include additional chance-based games.

  As described above, the RTP leveling feature game may be substantially the same as the normal feature game. However, the RTP leveling game is modified to ensure that a relatively large percentage of one or more monetary prize pools, as defined by prize pool meter 230, is paid to the player. As noted above, this pays the payment component 224 a predetermined percentage of one or more monetary prize pools, as defined by the prize pool meter 230, regardless of the skill score achieved by the player. May be made by letting This may be a value between 60% and 100%, which may be, for example, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100%. According to some alternative embodiments, the RTP leveling event may cause the skill score determination submodule 417 to have a skill score achieved by the player, for example, 100, 500, 1,000, or 2,000. In some cases, the amount may be doubled by a predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the RTP leveling event may otherwise be, for example, preventing the player from being hurt by an attack, giving the player a faster speed or stronger strength, or comparing to a regular session of a feature game. Thus, the execution of the feature game module 413 may be affected to make the avatar superpower by substantially increasing the skill score achieved by the player.

  A normal or RTP leveling feature game can be run at step 512 until a predetermined threshold is reached. This can be, for example, a time-based threshold or an achievement-based threshold.

  In some embodiments, the player may be able to end the game session at any time during game play. According to some embodiments, when the player finishes the game session, the player's skill score is determined by the sub-module 417 based on the player's game play record stored in the skill score determination memory 204, step 512. To be determined. According to some embodiments, as described above with reference to FIG. 2, the skill score may alternatively be calculated in real time during game play based on the occurrence of a trigger event.

  Once the skill score is determined, the processor 202 determines whether the player should be awarded a monetary payment and what the monetary payment should be. A monetary payment is calculated at step 514 by the processor 202 and payment component 224 based on the skill score and prize pool data stored in the prize pool meter 230. According to some embodiments, the payment amount may be an amount stored in one or more multi-stage prize pools, as described below with reference to FIG. According to some embodiments, the payment amount may be a percentage of the percentage-based prize pool, as described below with reference to FIG. According to some embodiments, the processor 202 may determine whether a multi-stage prize pool or a percentage-based prize pool should be used in playing a base game or other chance-based games. The determination may be based on whether more than one predetermined symbol is displayed. In some embodiments, the processor 202 may randomly determine which prize pool should be used. According to some embodiments, the processor 202 may be able to provide the user with a display screen and let the user choose which prize pool to play in. According to some embodiments, the value of monetary payment may alternatively be calculated in real time during game play based on the occurrence of a trigger event.

  In some embodiments, the processor 202 is further configured to determine whether a player should be awarded a non-monetary reward based on their skill score or performance throughout the feature game. There is a case. For example, in some embodiments, whether the player avatar level should be increased, whether an item that affects the game should be awarded to the player, or whether a certain amount of in-game currency should be awarded to the player. Skill scores may be used to determine

  Regardless of the skill score achieved, the payment amount may be determined where the RTP leveling event occurred. According to some embodiments, where the RTP leveling event occurs, the payment amount is 100% of each multi-stage award pool segment described below with reference to FIG. 14, or described below with reference to FIG. It may be 100% of the percentage-based prize pool.

  Any saved prize can be paid to the player in the form of cash or credit using the payment mechanism 225. In some embodiments, the gaming machine 100 may issue tickets corresponding to the player characters in the game. This ticket may allow players to load their characters into the game in their next game session, as described above with reference to step 501. In some embodiments, players may be able to upload their characters into an online gaming environment using a ticket. In some embodiments, it may be possible to transfer only character aesthetics, not attributes obtained through playing a base game. In some alternative embodiments, the character capability rating can be transferred via a ticket in addition to or in addition to the character aesthetic.

  Once any winnings are paid, the game is returned to the base game at step 503 by the processor 202 restarting the base game module 411. In some embodiments, the player may choose to defer receipt of any payment until after one or more further game sessions.

  In some embodiments, instead of tickets, character data can be used by players to store their character data and load their characters into the game in their next game session. It can be stored in another form, such as using a QR code, smart card, magnetic stripe card, near field transfer, or another electronic or non-electronic means of data storage.

  FIG. 16 illustrates an alternative method 1600 for gaming by implementing a game in a gaming system, such as the gaming machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 and the gaming machine 304 shown in FIG.

  The game method 1600 uses code to generate a graphic display on the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/304 to cause the player to indicate whether the player is a resume player or a new player. 202 may include an initial step 1618 to be executed. The prompt may be in the form of a text-based question displayed on the video display unit 104 of the gaming machine 100/304, and the player is asked to react by interacting with one or more input components by the user. There is. For example, if the player is a resuming player, the player can scan the ticket or provide account information such as a name and password that stores data related to the player's account. There is a case. The processor 202 may be configured to authenticate the user account based on the provided account information. The processor 202 may be stored on the gaming machine 100/304 or stored on an external device such as the server 308/310 to collect any required game information such as the player's avatar and level. The player database may be accessed to use stored data. If the player is a new player, the player may be able to indicate this, for example, by clicking on a virtual button displayed on the prompt screen.

  In step 1601, the processor 202 determines the resumed player status of the player based on the received user input. If the processor 202 determines that the player is a resume player, the processor 202 is configured to perform step 1605. If it is determined that the player is a new player, the processor 202 is configured to perform step 1602, which is performed by the processor 202 via the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/300. To prompt the player to create a new account, which may include a user input 218 to enter details such as an account name and password. May be required to be used. In some embodiments, the processor 202 does not create a new account for the player, but instead provides an option to play as a “guest” that does not require the player to enter any account information. 104 may be configured to be displayed on the screen. According to some embodiments, gaming device 100/304 may be configured to operate without creating a user account. In some embodiments, the game play information is stored by the processor 202 in which the player stores their progress in the game, and at least a portion of the player's past game progress, avatar development, and / or the player's next. May be written on a physical or virtual ticket that may be used to collect equipment or other game items in a game session

  In step 1603, the processor 202 is configured to generate a prompt and cause the video display unit 104 of the game machine 100/300 to display a prompt requesting the player to select a player class. A class may be a character type such as, for example, military, hunter, villain or wisdom. At step 1604, the processor 202 may be configured to generate a prompt requesting the player to create a character and display it on the video display 104 of the gaming device 100/304. In some embodiments, the processor 202 may be configured to generate a prompt for entering a name associated with the character and display it on the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/304. The processor 202 may execute a character generation module 414 that may be read from the character data 405 to obtain character information, and may display the character on the video display unit 104 of the gaming machine 100/304. Characters can be selected by scrolling through a series of available characters on the touch screen display of gaming device 100. In some embodiments, the character can be created by the player by selecting from a number of different options for the character component. For example, the player may be able to generate a character by selecting from various body shapes, facial features, hairstyles, and clothes that the character has. Characters created by the player may be stored in the player's account information and / or stored in a temporary memory location in the memory 204, and the player's saved character may be stored for the next game session. It may be printed or otherwise written to a physical or virtual ticket at the end of the session so that the player can read it.

  According to some embodiments, steps 1603 and 1604 may be performed in a single step. For example, according to some embodiments, processor 202 may be configured to automatically select a character based on class player selection. In some alternative embodiments, the processor 202 may be configured to generate a graphic prompt for display on the video display 104 for the player to select a character for the first time and select The class may be automatically selected based on the class associated with the selected character.

  The processor 202 is configured to implement the base game by executing the base game module 411 in step 1605. In some embodiments, the base game may be a reel game executed by the processor 202 executing the base game module 411. The processor 202 may be configured to read symbol data 401 for playing a base game. In some embodiments, the base game can be a different chance-based game, in which the symbols are for display on the visual display 104 without the appearance of a spinning reel. Randomly selected from symbol set. The player can initiate an instance of the base game module 411 by the processor 202 through interaction with the user input 118. The base game module 411 is executed by the processor 202, and a plurality of symbols obtained from the symbol data 401 are selected by the processor 202 for display at a plurality of display positions on the visual display unit 104. In some embodiments where the base game is a reel game, the base game module 411 is executed by the processor 202 and appears to spin the reel virtually on the visual display 104. The selection of symbols can be performed randomly by, for example, a random number generator 414.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 5, the game result is determined based on symbols randomly displayed on the display. The game result can be composed of a base game result determined by the processor 202 based on the base game pay table data 402 and a meta game result determined by the processor 202 based on the meta game pay table data 403. The base game result can result in the awarding of a monetary prize to the player based on the particular symbol displayed. If the base game result results in the acquisition of a monetary prize, this may be immediately credited to the player in some embodiments via the payment mechanism 225. In some other embodiments, the total amount earned can be stored and stored during the game session, and the total amount can be awarded at the end of the game session. The total amount earned can be taken from the base game prize pool. The total amount earned can be awarded as cash or as a credit that can be redeemed for cash.

  The metagame results are determined by the metagame module 412 based on the metagame task data 404 and, in the metagame, the player progresses toward one or more tasks or quest sets, and / or one or more It may be possible to complete a task or quest set. Progress made towards the completion of each task can be displayed to the player in the form of a ratio, percentage, progress bar, or other means of indicating promotion through the task. The player level as stored in the character data 405 may be incremented if the metagame result results in completion of all task sets. In some embodiments, some or all player attributes stored in the character data 405 may also be incremented or increased.

  In some embodiments, metagame results may alternatively or additionally be awarded to players as additional rewards. Additional rewards can be awarded upon completion of all tasks in the quest, upon completion of each task, or simply based on a combination of symbols displayed during the game. In some embodiments, metagame results can be awarded for awards that players can apply to their characters, such as aesthetic rewards or skill-based rewards. In some embodiments, the processor 202 grants the player one or more units of in-game virtual currency that the player may later be able to use to purchase aesthetic or skill-based rewards. Can be configured to be able to. For example, the processor 202 may be configured to be able to award in-game credits, coins, gems, tokens, or other forms of virtual currency. According to some embodiments, multiple different forms of virtual currency may be awarded during a metagame, and different forms of that currency are used to purchase different types of items. There is a case. Different aesthetic and skill-based rewards may be able to be purchased virtually with virtual currency, each with a different total amount. For example, in some embodiments, a mantle can cost 3 coins, a recovery potion can cost 5 coins, and a boot that increases the speed of a character or avatar can cost 10 coins.

At step 1606, the processor 202 determines whether a trigger event has occurred that allows participation in the feature game. In some embodiments, the trigger event may be a software event. According to some embodiments,
Occurrence of a trigger event may be visually indicated to the player through the video display 104 by a display of symbols or symbol combinations on a game display, for example on a reel. In some embodiments, as described above with respect to FIG. 5, the trigger event is configured to occur only after the player reaches a time-based threshold, a spend-based threshold, or a played game threshold. There is a case. According to some embodiments, the trigger event may be configured to occur randomly or at a pseudo-random time. In some embodiments, the triggering event may be random within a set time period or pseudo-simulated after the player reaches a time-based threshold, a spend-based threshold, or a played game threshold. May be configured to occur at random times. For example, trigger events can be configured to occur at random times within a set time range after the player reaches a time-based threshold, which can be, for example, a time limit of 5, 10, or 15 minutes. May be. According to some embodiments, the trigger event may be configured to have a predetermined probability of occurrence within a predetermined period. For example, the trigger event may be configured such that the probability of occurrence within 5 minutes is 80% after the threshold of the played game is achieved, for example.

  Until the trigger event occurs, game play continues at step 1605 with the processor 202 having the base game module 411 continue playing and the player has an additional chance to bet and play the base game.

  When the trigger event occurs, in step 1607, the processor 202 may optionally display the eye recording surface on the video display unit 104 to give the player an opportunity to edit the player's inventory before entering the feature game. . For example, the eye recording surface may display virtual items owned by the player, such as weapons and potions. The processor 202 may be configured to show virtual inventory items and provide players with an opportunity to purchase new items or to discard existing items from the inventory. Once the player is satisfied with the contents of the inventory, the processor 202 can exit from the inventory page in response to input from the player, and in response, the processor 202 optionally, at step 1608, the gaming machine 100. / 300 video display 104 may display a pre-battle screen where the user may use a potion or other special item to upgrade a weapon or shield before entering a feature game. Any final character adjustment may be possible.

  According to some embodiments, the pre-battle screen may be displayed before the eye recording screen. According to some embodiments, only one of the pre-battle screen and the eye recording screen may be displayed. According to some embodiments, one or more pre-battle screens and eye recording planes may be displayed over a limited period of time. Once the predetermined time expires, the processor 202 may automatically advance the method to the next step.

  According to some embodiments, some selections made on the pre-battle screen can be modified during the feature game. For example, a player may be able to select a different weapon for use in the middle of a feature game in some embodiments.

  In step 1609, the processor 202 executes the feature game module 413 when the player indicates that the player is satisfied with the pre-battle selection using the user input 218 or when a preset time period has elapsed. The feature game starts. The feature game can be a skill-based adventure game in some embodiments. The feature game can be a battle, treasure hunt, first person shooter, quest, or other type of skill-based game, as described above with reference to FIG.

  The game machine 100/3034 can execute the feature game until a predetermined threshold value, a trigger event, or an end event is reached. When the feature game is over, the video display unit 104 of the game machine 100/300 can optionally display a post-battle screen in step 1610. The post-battle screen can be displayed, for example, during the progress of the feature game. Players can be given the ability to use any virtual credits obtained.

  After viewing the post-battle results, in step 1610, the video display unit 104 of the gaming machine 100/300 can display an achievement screen such as the screen 1700 shown in FIG. 17 or the screen 1800 shown in FIG. The screen can display a statistical value about the game play during the feature game, the obtained results, and the winnings obtained. After viewing the achievements, the processor 202 may cause the video display unit 104 to display the eye recording screen again in step 1612 in some embodiments, in order to give the player the opportunity to enter an inventory relating to the player's avatar. it can. After displaying the eye-recording screen, the game play sequence returns to step 1605 where the processor 202 causes the game machine 100/304 to again present the base game to the player via the video display 104.

  Specific examples of game methods 500 and 1600 are described below with reference to screen shots of the display of game system 100 shown in FIGS. 6-15, 17 and 18.

  FIG. 6 is an exemplary screenshot of the character selection screen 600 of the gaming machine 100 as generated by the character generation module 414 based on information read by the processor 202 from the character data 405. Screen 600 shows a message 601 that instructs the player of game machine 100 to select a character. A number of characters 602 can be displayed for selection. Each character includes a character type descriptor 604 (e.g., warrior, hunter, villain, or mage). The player can scroll through the character using user input 218. A character can appear as a “selected” character 603 at any time when the player scrolls through the available characters 602. The selected character 603 is shown as being in front of the unselected character 602 and is shown highlighted by a virtual marking 606. The name of the selected character 605 can appear larger and distinguishably from the name of the character 604 that has not been selected in another color or otherwise. As players scroll to their desired character, they can use user input 218 to confirm their selection and exit the character selection page.

  FIG. 7 is an exemplary screenshot of the virtual position selection screen 700 of the gaming machine 100 as generated by the virtual position generation module 415 based on information read by the processor 202 from the virtual position data 406. The screen 700 displays a message 701 that instructs the player of the game machine 100 to select a position. A number of locations 702 are displayed for selection. Each location includes a location name or descriptor 704. The player may be able to scroll through the position using user input 218. One position can appear as a “selected” position 703 at any time when the player scrolls through available positions 702. The selected position highlighted by the virtual marking 706 is shown. The name of the selected location 705 may appear larger, distinguishable from the name of the location 704 that is not selected in another color or otherwise. When the player scrolls to their desired location, they can use the user input 218 to confirm their selection and exit the location selection page.

  FIG. 8 is an exemplary screenshot of the base game screen 800 of the gaming machine 100 as generated by the base game module 411 based on information read by the processor 202 from the symbol data 401. The screen 800 displays a game title 801 and a symbol set 802 for the base game. Symbol set 802 is described in further detail below with reference to FIGS. The screen 800 also displays the selected character 803 and a credit, bet and win meter 804 that can display the total credit the player has, the total bet, and the total amount earned in a particular game session. The selected character 803 can be a character selected by the player using the character selection screen 600. The screen 800 can include a map selection virtual button 805 that can be used to return to the virtual location selection screen 700. The screen 800 shows a level indicator 806 and a quest log 807. Level indicator 806 and quest log 807 are described in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 11-12C.

  FIG. 9 is a detailed diagram 900 of the symbol set 802. Symbol set 802 displays a plurality of symbols as generated by processor 202 based on symbol data 401. These symbols can include pictographs such as treasure chest symbol 901, torch symbol 902, and sword symbol 905, and alphanumeric symbols such as A symbol 903 and Q symbol 904. In some embodiments, the alphanumeric symbols can correspond to cards from standard decks of cards such as Aces and Queens for A and Q, respectively.

  FIG. 10 is an exemplary screenshot of the base game screen 1000 of the gaming machine 100 showing a reward acquisition line 1005 as determined by the processor 202 based on the base game paytable data 402. The reward acquisition line can appear on the symbol set 802 when the player of the gaming machine 100 bets and causes the symbol set 802 to generate a set of symbols for display. Four treasure chest symbols 901 crossing the reward acquisition line are shown. The remaining symbols, including symbols 902, 903, and 904, are shown not to cross the reward acquisition line. The reward acquisition line can result in a player earning cash, credits, or other prizes from the gaming device 100. In some embodiments, the reward acquisition line may also provide progress in the metagame, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 11-12C.

  FIG. 11 is a detailed diagram 1100 of the quest log 807. The quest log 807 indicates the progress of the player through the meta game as controlled by the meta game module 412 based on the information from the meta game task data 404 during the play of the base game displayed on the symbol set 802. Chase. The quest log 807 indicates the number of quests 1101 described as tasks completed during the meta game. These tasks can be tailored to the character, game scenario and / or virtual position of the game selected by the player. For example, in selecting a farm location, the task may comprise, for example, “defeat 10 moths”, “protect the village”, and “repair the farm”. Each task can be displayed next to the symbol 1102. In some embodiments, the displayed symbols can correspond to symbols in symbol set 802 and can be related to symbols that need to appear on symbol set 802 to complete a task. A task or quest can include a progress meter 1103, which can indicate the number of remaining occurrences of a successful symbol required to complete the task. The processor 202 can determine the number of successful symbol appearances based on the meta game pay table data 403. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, each task requires 10 successful symbol appearances to complete. The “Defeat 10 Traps” task completed 3 out of 10 requested. The “Protect Village” and “Repair Farmer” tasks completed 5 and 8 out of the 10 required, respectively. In some embodiments, as each or all quests are completed, the player's character can be promoted by one level, or acquired an improved set of abilities or attributes. In some embodiments, a player can alternatively or additionally be raised by one level, or during a feature game play by completing a goal or earning points during the feature game. , An improved set of abilities or attributes can be acquired.

  FIG. 12A is a detailed view of the quest log 807 showing the tasks to be completed. The “Defeat 10 Traps” task 1201 is highlighted when 10 of 10 requested successful symbol occurrences have been achieved. Tasks 1202 that have not been completed are not highlighted.

  FIG. 12B is a detailed view of the level indicator 806. The level indicator 806 indicates the current level 1203 of the player's character, which is level 1 in the illustrated embodiment. The level indicator 806 also shows a progress bar 1204 that indicates the remaining progress required in the metagame and / or feature game before the character reaches the next level. A level indicator 806 is also displayed for characters that achieve the next level 1205.

  FIG. 12C shows an exemplary screenshot of the symbol set 802 showing the acquired combination of symbols 1206 as determined by the processor 202 based on the metagame paytable data 403, highlighting the acquired metagame combination. Show. Symbols that are not part of the acquired combination, such as the symbol 1207, are not highlighted. Based on the combination of symbols appearing on the symbol set 802, the processor 202 determines whether the symbol combination is an acquired combination based on the meta game pay table data 403. The acquired combination may result in one or more tasks 1101 (ie, metagame goals) completed in some embodiments, or progress made toward completion of one or more tasks.

  FIG. 13 is an exemplary screen shot of the feature game screen 1300 of the game machine 100. The screen 1300 includes a character image 1301, a character name 1302, a character health display 1303, a character experience display 1304, and a skill score 1305 achieved by the player stored in memory as skill score data 409. Including character information display part. The screen 1300 also shows a countdown timer 1306 that indicates the time left for the player to navigate through the virtual environment to collect rewards before the feature game ends. In some embodiments, the feature game can end when either timer 1306 expires or when player strength 1303 expires, whichever occurs first. The total amount of reward collected by the player is indicated by a reward meter 1307. Reward collection also contributes to an increase in the player's skill score 1305. A message bar 1308 can be used to display a message to players playing the feature game. When the player navigates the character 1310 through the virtual environment shown using the user input 218, the character can interact with objects in the environment, such as a treasure chest 1309 or other reward trigger object. . By opening treasure chest 1309, players can accumulate rewards, including non-monetary prizes, or other prizes, such as collecting skill points to increase their skill score 1305. In some embodiments, rewards can be transferred to cash or credits at the end of the game. In some embodiments, the box 1309 may include aesthetic or other non-monetary rewards that affect the game, such as clothes, weapons, or other changes to the character 1310. In some embodiments, players interact with bosses, villains or monsters and interact with other characters or objects in feature games, such as by unlocking, opening doors, trapping, or solving puzzles. It may also be possible to act. As described above, along with the calculation by the skill score determination submodule 417, the skill score 1305 may be calculated and displayed in real time in response to the action of the player. According to some embodiments, the amount of monetary payment calculated based on the current skill score may be calculated and displayed in real time.

  FIG. 17 is an exemplary screen shot of the achievement screen 1700 of the game machine 100. The processor 202 may be configured to cause the display of the screen 1700 to show the score, achievements and money earned during the feature game after the play of the feature game is complete. Screen 1700 shows achievement board 1701 and player character or avatar representation 1702. The performance board 1701 has a series of selectable pages 1704 including a title 1703 and a currently selected page 1705. The symbol for the currently selected page is virtually highlighted. The player may be able to scroll or flip through page 1704 using controls 1706 and 1707. The selected page 1705 shows a number of achievement icons 1708 and a progress meter 1709 for each achievement. The progress meter 2009 can indicate how far the player is from a particular achievement. For example, if one achievement is to defeat 10 enemies and the player defeats 5 enemies, the progress meter 1709 can be half that achievement. A text description 1710 for each achievement 1708 may also be displayed when the player highlights or selects the achievement.

  Once the player finishes viewing the player's performance, the player may activate the virtual button 1711 and proceed to the next screen, whereby the processor 202 displays a result screen on the game machine 100/304. There is.

 FIG. 18 is an example of a screen shot of the battle result screen 1800 of the game machine 100. The screen 1800 may be displayed by the processor 202 after playing the feature game and in some embodiments after the display of the performance screen 1700. Screen 1800 may be configured to show the results of a feature game, which may include scores, points, achievements, and money earned during the feature game. A screen 1800 shows a score indicator 1802 and a prize amount indicator 1803 together with a battle result heading 1801. The score indicator 1802 may display a skill score that is read from the skill score data 409, which may be determined by the processor 202 during the feature game play, as described above with reference to step 513 of the method 500. The prize amount indicator 1803 may indicate a value of $ 1 corresponding to the payment amount obtained by the player during the feature game play (calculated by the processor 202 as described above with reference to step 514 of the method 500). is there.

  Screen 1800 also shows an experience point indicator 1804 and a level progress bar 1805. Experience point indicator 1804 may indicate the number of experience points earned by the player's avatar. The experience points may be calculated during the play of the feature game and may contribute to the level of the player's avatar. According to some embodiments, experience points may be calculated based on rules defined by the feature game module 411. For example, the feature game module 411 may define a rule that a player's avatar is awarded five experience points when an enemy is defeated in a feature game. According to some embodiments, processor 202 may modify the stored value of experience points each time a trigger event occurs in a feature game. The trigger event can be any event scheduled according to the stored event rules to change experience points. This may include generation, action or achievement (whether or not successful) by a character or avatar, such as, for example, defeating an enemy, finding hidden items, using consumables, or taking damage.

  The level progress meter 1805 may indicate to the player the progress they have made to improve the level of the player's avatar. The level progress meter 1805 may indicate the current level 1806 and the next level 1807 with a progress bar 1808 that visually represents how far the avatar is from reaching the next level 1807. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the avatar is about 1/7 of the way from level 8 to level 9. According to some embodiments, the player level may depend on the experience points earned. For example, an increase in the level of the player's avatar may occur when the avatar achieves a predetermined number of experience points obtained through the performance of the avatar in the feature game. In the illustrated embodiment, the player avatar may need to achieve 5000 points before the avatar level is raised to level 9.

  According to some embodiments, the screen 1800 may show an unlocked item indicator 1809. The unlocked item indicator 1809 may indicate one or more items currently available to the player for purchase for inventory of the avatar. The item can be a score 1802, a prize 1803 or an experience point 1804 achieved by the avatar during the play of the feature game, or a specific avatar specific to the feature game such as defeating a predetermined number of enemies (eg 5 enemies) May be unlocked based on action or performance. Items may include items that affect aesthetics or games, such as clothing, weapons, potions, or modifications to character 1310.

  Once the player has finished viewing the battle result 1801, the player may activate the virtual button 1810 and proceed to the next screen, where the gaming machine 100/304 refers to FIGS. 14 and 19 Then, a prize pool screen as will be described later is displayed. FIG. 14 displays a multi-stage prize pool for feature games that may be used to calculate payments to players based on skill score data 409, as described above with reference to step 514 of method 500. 1400 is shown in the screen shot. Screenshot 1400 shows a skill jack meter 1402 having a value 1401, skill score level 1403, a skill score value bar 1404, a prize pool segment value 1405, and an avatar 1406 for the main jackpot. Avatar 1406 may indicate the current appearance of the player's avatar.

  The jackpot display 1401 may indicate the amount of money that may be the percentage-based prize pool amount, as will be described later with reference to FIG. Percentage-based prize pools may appear in place of multi-stage prize pools in some embodiments based on the occurrence of specific trigger symbols in game play outside of (feature) skill games. Skill score meter 1402 may be used to display a player's skill score as determined during play of a feature game in relation to the number of monetary values that the player may be eligible for. . In particular, the skill score level 1403 is used to indicate the number of skill score values corresponding to the segments of the multi-stage prize pool. The skill score level 1403 may correlate with a skill score range associated with the prize pool segment. Each skill score bracket may correspond to a specific amount of payment given to the player. Skill score value bar 1404 may be in the form of a form that is partially filled with color or shade to visually represent the skill score and correlate with the achieved skill score value.

  The prize pool segment value 1405 may be determined by the processor 202 based on the value stored in the prize pool meter 230, and may be calculated as a percentage of the multi-stage prize pool meter value, Alternatively, the prize pool meter 230 may be stored as an independent value. When a player acquires a particular prize pool segment, the prize pool segment may be seeded again with money from the second prize pool, as stored in the prize pool meter 230. And the relationship between each prize pool and each skill score range may be modified so that the monetary value of each prize pool segment is related to the skill score range associated with that prize pool segment. is there.

  For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a player has achieved a skill score of 200 points and wins $ 52.00 in pool 2. Once this occurs, pool 2 is seeded again with the amount for the base level, which may be, for example, $ 5.00. The base level is the lowest (default) level, so when the prize pool is readjusted from lowest to highest, the pool just acquired will be ordered at the bottom of the list into pool 4 Become. The amount of money that is redeemed again may be taken from an auxiliary pool that is not available for player acquisition. Our pool 4 is pushed up into pool 3 and our pool 3 is pushed up into pool 2.

  In an alternative embodiment, when a player acquires pool 2, pool 2 is replenished with pool 3 to $ 26.00, and pool 3 is replenished with pool 4 to $ 16.00. The pool 4 is again repaid for the default minimum amount of money. This minimum amount may be taken from the second prize pool, which may be, for example, $ 5.00. When the player re-enters the base game, every bet placed by the player is added to the second prize pool stored in the prize pool meter 230, as well as each pool 1, 2, 3, and 4 Used to increase

  When an RTP leveling event occurs, a player may be given a total for each pool 1, 2, 3 and 4 for a total of $ 299.00 in the illustrated embodiment.

  FIG. 19 illustrates an alternative multi-stage award pool of feature games that may be used to calculate payments to players based on skill score data 409, as described above with reference to step 514 of method 500. A screenshot 1900 to be displayed is shown. Screenshot 1900 shows the main jackpot value 1901, skill score level 1903, skill score value indicator 1904, prize pool segment value 1905 and avatar 1906. Avatar 1906 may indicate the current appearance of the player's avatar.

  The jackpot display 1901 may indicate the amount of money that may be the amount of the percentage-based prize pool, as described below with reference to FIG. Percentage-based prize pools appear in place of multi-stage prize pools in some embodiments based on randomized occurrences of specific trigger symbols in game play outside of (feature) skill games There is a case. Skill score level 1903 and skill score value indicator 1904 display the player's skill score as determined during play of the feature game in relation to the number of monetary values that the player may be eligible for. May be used. In particular, skill score level indicator 1904 is displayed as a bar where skill score level 1903 is used to indicate the number of skill score values corresponding to the segments of the multi-stage prize pool. The skill score level 1903 may correlate with a skill score range associated with the prize pool segment. Each skill score bracket may correspond to a specific amount of payment given to the player. Skill score value indicator 1904 visually represents the skill score, and may be, for example, a shape or contour partially filled with color or shade to correlate with the achieved skill score value.

  The prize pool segment value 1905 may be determined by the processor 202 based on the value stored in the prize pool meter 230, and may be calculated as a percentage of the multi-stage prize pool meter value, Alternatively, the prize pool meter 230 may be stored as an independent value. When a player acquires a particular prize pool segment, the processor 202 refills that prize pool segment with money from the second prize pool, as stored in the prize pool meter 230. And the relationship between each prize pool and each skill score range may be modified so that the monetary value of each prize pool segment is related to the skill score range associated with that prize pool segment. is there.

  For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a player has achieved a skill score greater than 10,000 points and earns $ 335.0.75 in Pool 1. Once this occurs, the processor 202 is configured to refill the pool 1 with the amount for the base level, which may be, for example, $ 5.00. The basal level is the lowest (default) level, so when processor 202 recalibrates the prize pool from lowest to highest, processor 202 lists the pool just acquired (in this case pool 1). Pool 4 is ordered at the bottom of. The amount of money refilled may be taken from an auxiliary pool that is not available for player acquisition. The processor 202 visually pushes up our pool 4 from the bottom and renames it as pool 3, visually pushes up the original pool 3 to the third position from the bottom and renames it as pool 2, and Visually push up our pool 2 to the highest position and rename it Pool 1.

  In an alternative embodiment, when a player acquires pool 2, processor 202 replenishes pool 2 with the current amount ($ 114.00) from pool 3 and from pool 4 with the current amount ($ 13.00). To pool 3. The processor 202 also refills the pool 4 with a default minimum amount. This minimum amount may be taken from the second prize pool, which may be, for example, $ 5.00. When the player re-enters the base game, every bet placed by the player is added to the second prize pool stored in the prize pool meter 230, as well as each pool 1, 2, 3, and 4 Used to increase

  When an RTP leveling event occurs (as described above with reference to step 509 of FIG. 5), the player is given a total for each pool 1, 2, 3, and 4 for a total of $ 400.15 in the illustrated embodiment. There is a case.

  FIG. 15 displays a percentage-based prize pool for feature games that may be used to calculate payments to players based on skill score data 409, as described above with reference to step 514 of method 500. A screenshot 1500 is shown. Screenshot 1500 shows a main jackpot value 1501, a skill score meter 1502 with a skill score level 1503, a skill score value bar 1504, a percentage prize pool value 1505 and an avatar 1506. Avatar 1506 may indicate the current appearance of the player's avatar.

  Jackpot display 1501 may indicate the amount of money that may be associated with the largest monetary prize that a player of a feature game may earn when a percentage-based prize pool is activated. According to some embodiments, a percentage-based prize pool may be activated instead of a multi-stage prize pool when a particular symbol or combination of symbols is presented during a chance game. . According to some embodiments, a percentage-based prize pool may be activated based on the occurrence of other random events. According to some embodiments, the percentage prize pool is a pseudo-random event (e.g., random depending on a non-random event), such as a result that is randomly generated after a player selects or takes a specific action. May be used instead of a multistage prize pool. For example, the percentage prize pool may be activated when a randomly generated result after defeating a particular enemy during a skill-based game determines that the percentage prize pool should be used.

  Skill score meter 1502 may be used to display a player's skill score as determined during play of the feature game in relation to a percentage of the prize pool that the player may be eligible for. is there. In particular, skill score level 1503 is used to indicate the number of skill score values corresponding to a percentage of the percentage-based prize pool, such as 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. Each skill score bracket may correspond to a specific payment percentage to be awarded to the player. Skill score value bar 1504 represents the skill score visually and may be in the form of a partially filled with color or shade associated with the value of the skill score achieved.

  The prize pool segment value 1505 may be determined as a percentage of the percentage-based prize pool value stored in the prize pool meter 230 and is calculated based on a skill score bracket into which the player's skill score is dropped. There is a case. According to some embodiments, the prize pool segment value 1505 may indicate a percentage rather than the amount of money corresponding to the percentage. If a player earns a certain percentage of the prize pool, the prize pool may be reduced by a corresponding amount. When a player earns 100% of the prize pool, the prize pool may be refilled with money from the second prize pool, as stored in the prize pool meter 230.

  For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the player has achieved a skill score of 200 points and earns $ 232.68 in the prize pool, which may correspond to, for example, 75% of the prize pool. Once this occurs, the prize pool is reduced by $ 232.68, leaving only 25% of the original prize pool, $ 77.56 in this example. When the player re-enters the base game, a portion of every bet placed by the player is used to raise the prize pool amount.

  When an RTP leveling event occurs, the player may be awarded 100% of the prize pool, which in this example may be $ 370.24, and as noted above, the prize pool is , May be refilled from the second prize pool.

  Those skilled in the art will appreciate that multiple variations and / or modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad general scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, this embodiment is to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

  The foregoing description is provided as an example of a preferred embodiment as currently contemplated utilizing a gaming machine of the type found in casinos, and those skilled in the art will recognize that the described embodiment is an application to Internet games. And / or an application to a game via a telecommunications network, where a mobile handset may be used to display game results and receive player input. Mobile devices such as these include smartphones, notebooks, tablets, iPad® and laptop computers. For example, free mobile device games can be presented for download and played on the player's personal mobile device as a bonus game play. In some embodiments, these downloads can be made available on a server that is accessible via an Internet connection. In some embodiments, the gaming machine 100/304 enables interaction and data transfer between the personal mobile device and the gaming machine 100/304, and can be downloaded from the gaming machine 100/304 to the personal mobile device. A communication interface can be included. The communication interface can be a wireless interface in some embodiments.

  Further embodiments may allow players to upload game or bonus game results to social media site (s), post tournament scores, and the like.

  Certain steps in the processes or process flows described in this disclosure essentially precede others in the embodiments to function as described. However, embodiments are not limited to the order of steps described where such an order or sequence does not change the functionality of the described embodiments. That is, it will be appreciated that some steps may be performed before, after, or in parallel (substantially simultaneously with other steps) without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. To do. In some examples, certain steps may be omitted or not performed. Furthermore, words such as “after”, “then”, “next”, etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps. These words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the exemplary method.

  In one or more exemplary aspects, the functions described can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, the functions can be stored on a computer-readable medium or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one position to another.

  A storage media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, computer readable media such as these may be in the form of RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device, or instructions or data structures. Any other medium that can be used to carry or store the desired program code and that can be accessed by a computer can be provided.

  Also, any communication connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, the software uses coaxial technology, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (“DSL”), or wireless technology such as infrared, wireless, and microwave from a website, server, or other remote source. Next, coaxial technology, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, wireless, and microwave are included in the definition of media.

Some embodiments are:
Display,
A memory for storing a set of game instructions;
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
At least one tactile user input mechanism for navigating through the game of skills;
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in the memory;
The game controller
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display, the game of skill comprising an application for player skills via the at least one tactile user input mechanism;
Allowing a player to control an avatar to run the skill game by manipulating the at least one tactile user input mechanism;
In response to a triggering event, determining a skill score based on at least one aspect of the avatar performance of the skill game and the set of game instructions; and
It said skill score, based on the correlation between skills scores range related to at least one prize Scripture pool, relates to a game machine for determining a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from the Shoten pool.

Some embodiments are methods for determining monetary rewards based on the outcome of a skill game comprising:
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display of the gaming machine, the game of skill including application of player skills via at least one tactile user input mechanism ;
Allowing the player to control the avatar to execute the game of the skill by operating at least one tactile user input mechanism;
Responsive to a trigger event, determining a skill score based on at least one aspect of avatar performance in the skill game and a set of game instructions stored in memory of the gaming machine;
Determining a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from a prize pool based on the skill score ,
It said skill score, a step on the basis of the correlation between skills scores range related to at least one prize Scripture pool, determining a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from the Shoten pool,
Relates to a method comprising:

Claims (39)

Display,
A memory for storing a set of game instructions;
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in the memory;
The game controller
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Allowing a player to control an avatar to run the game of the skill by manipulating the at least one input mechanism;
In response to a triggering event, determining a skill score based on at least one aspect of the avatar performance of the skill game and the set of game instructions; and
A game machine that determines a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from the prize pool based on the skill score.   The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the game controller is configured to present at least one chance game on the display in response to receiving user input.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein at least one prize pool is increased based on a player's spending in the chance game.   The game machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the game controller is configured to present the game of the at least one skill after presenting the game of the at least one chance.   5. The gaming machine of claim 4, wherein the game controller is configured to present the at least one skill game in response to at least one outcome of the at least one chance game.   The game controller is configured to execute a metagame, the metagame defines at least one metagame goal, and progress through the metagame toward at least one metagame goal is a result of a chance game. The game machine according to any one of claims 2 to 5, which is related.   The game machine according to claim 6, wherein achievement of the at least one meta game goal affects at least one aspect of the game of at least one skill.   The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game controller is configured to present a game of at least one skill in response to a predetermined condition being satisfied.   9. The game controller according to claim 1, wherein the game controller is configured to indicate a selectable option to a user, and the game controller presents a game of at least one skill according to the selection of the option. game machine.   The game machine according to claim 9, wherein the game controller is configured to show a user a selectable option in response to a predetermined condition being satisfied.   The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the monetary reward is determined based on a correlation between the skill score and a skill score range associated with the at least one prize pool.   The game controller is configured to randomly generate a leveling event for a return to the player, and the player who was playing when the leveling event occurred is one or more related to the skill-based game. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein a predetermined percentage of the prize pool is awarded.   The game machine according to claim 12, wherein the leveling event of the return to the player occurs before the skill game starts.   The game machine according to claim 13, wherein the percentage is 60% or more and 100% or less.   The game machine according to claim 14, wherein the percentage is 100%.   The game machine according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the leveling event of the return to the player changes the characteristics of the avatar so as to benefit the player.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the at least one prize pool is divided into a plurality of prize pool segments, and each prize pool segment is associated with a skill score range.   The game machine according to claim 17, wherein the value of each prize pool segment is related to a skill score range related to the prize pool segment.   When a prize pool segment is acquired, the prize pool segment is refilled with money from the second prize pool, and the association between each prize pool and each skill score range is determined by each prize pool segment. 19. The gaming machine of claim 17 or 18, wherein the monetary value of is modified to be associated with a skill score range associated with the prize pool segment.   20. The monetary reward awarded to a player is a percentage of the amount in the prize pool, and the game controller is configured to calculate the percentage based on a skill score. The game machine as described in.   The game machine according to claim 20, wherein the skill score is determined based on an avatar action of a skill game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on the number of in-game items collected by a player of a skill-based game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on the number of enemies in the game destroyed by a player of a skill-based game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on a time at which a player completes a task in a skill-based game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on difficulty of an action sequence executed by a player of a skill-based game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on damage inflicted by an enemy by a skill-based game player.   27. A gaming machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on the use of in-game consumables by a player in a skill-based game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the skill score is determined based at least in part on damage incurred by a player of a skill-based game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the game controller is further configured to determine a non-monetary reward to be awarded to the player based on the skill score.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the trigger event is an action or achievement of an avatar during game play.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the trigger event is completion of a feature game. A method for determining monetary rewards based on the outcome of a skill game,
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display of the game console;
Enabling the player to control the avatar to execute the game of the skill by operating at least one input mechanism;
Responsive to a trigger event, determining a skill score based on at least one aspect of avatar performance in the skill game and a set of game instructions stored in memory of the gaming machine;
Determining a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from a prize pool based on the skill score;
A method comprising:   32. The method of claim 31, further comprising presenting at least one chance game on the display in response to receiving user input.   33. The method of claim 32, further comprising the step of increasing the prize pool based on player spending in a chance game.   34. The method of claim 32 or 33, further comprising presenting at least one skill game after presenting at least one chance game.   35. The method of claim 34, further comprising presenting at least one skill game in response to at least one outcome of the at least one chance game.   Executing a metagame, wherein the metagame defines at least one metagame goal, and progress through the metagame toward the at least one metagame goal is related to the outcome of the chance game. 36. A method according to any one of claims 32 to 35.   A computer readable medium having stored thereon machine readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method of any one of claims 31 to 36. Display,
A memory for storing a set of game instructions;
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in the memory;
The game controller
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Allowing a player to control an avatar to run the game of the skill by manipulating the at least one input mechanism;
In response to a triggering event, determining a skill indicator based on at least one aspect of the avatar performance of the skill game and the set of game instructions; and
A game machine that determines a monetary reward to be awarded to the player from the prize pool based on the skill indicator.

Images