US20230035244A1

US20230035244A1 - Assigning multiplier values based on random game outcomes of preceding reels

Info

Publication number: US20230035244A1
Application number: US17/841,587
Authority: US
Inventors: Gary Penacho; Allon Englman
Original assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Inc
Current assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Inc
Priority date: 2021-08-02
Filing date: 2022-06-15
Publication date: 2023-02-02
Also published as: US20230031773A1; US20230222876A1; AU2022211827A1; US20230360468A1; US20230033113A1; US20230029727A1; US11741777B2; US11810419B2; AU2022211829A1; AU2022211825A1; AU2022211824A1; US11620870B2

Abstract

A gaming system comprising a display system and a game controller comprising one or more processors, the game controller executing instructions which cause the game controller to: based on a determination that an extra wild feature is enabled for a first reel of a plurality of reels, randomly determine whether to activate an extra wild feature for the first reel, activate the extra wild feature for the first reel in response to the determination, based on the activation of the extra wild feature for the first reel, cause the display system to replace the first reel with a first multiplier ladder, determine a multiplier value for the first multiplier ladder, and cause the display system to display the determined multiplier value.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/203,847, filed Aug. 2, 2021, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Electronic gaming machines (“EGMs”) or gaming devices provide a variety of wagering games, such as slot games, video poker games, video blackjack games, roulette games, video bingo games, keno games and other types of games that are frequently offered at casinos and other locations. Play on EGMs typically involves a player establishing a credit balance by inputting money, or another form of monetary credit, and placing a monetary wager (from the credit balance) on one or more outcomes of an instance (or single play) of a primary or base game. In some cases, a player may qualify for a special mode of the base game, a secondary game or a bonus round of the base game by attaining a certain winning combination or triggering event in, or related to, the base game or after the player is randomly awarded the special mode, secondary game, or bonus round. In the special mode, secondary game, or bonus round, the player is given an opportunity to win extra game credits, game tokens or other forms of payout. In the case of “game credits” that are awarded during play, the game credits are typically added to a credit meter total on the EGM and can be provided to the player upon completion of a gaming session or when the player wants to “cash out.”
“Slot” type games are often displayed to the player in the form of various symbols arrayed in a row-by-column grid or matrix. Specific matching combinations of symbols along predetermined paths (or pay lines) through the matrix indicate the outcome of the game. The display typically highlights winning combinations/outcomes for identification by the player. Matching combinations and their corresponding awards are usually shown in a “pay-table” that is available to the player for reference. Often, the player may vary their wager to include differing numbers of pay lines and/or the amount bet on each line. By varying the wager, the player may sometimes alter the frequency or number of winning combinations, frequency or number of secondary games, and/or the amount awarded.
Typical games use a random number generator (RNG) to randomly determine the outcome of each game. The game is designed to return a certain percentage of the amount wagered back to the player over the course of many plays or instances of the game, which is generally referred to as return to player (RTP). The RTP and randomness of the RNG ensure the fairness of the games and are highly regulated. Upon initiation of play, the RNG randomly determines a game outcome and symbols are then selected that correspond to that outcome. Notably, some games may include an element of skill on the part of the player and are therefore not entirely random.

SUMMARY

Techniques for an extra wild feature that can be enabled for one or more reels of a plurality of reels. Once enabled for a wheel, the extra wild feature allows the reel to be replaced by a multiplier ladder if the extra wild feature is activated. Activation of the extra wild feature is random, and once the extra wild feature is activated for a reel, the underlying reel is removed prior to a reel outcome being determined and replaced with the multiplier ladder. Where multiple multiplier ladders appear adjacent to each other, the multiple multiplier ladders may be merged into a single multiplier ladder with larger multiplier values. Activating the extra wild feature and merging multipliers helps engage the user with large potential payouts from the merged multiplier values. This represents technical functionality that provides an improved user interface for enhancing a player's understanding of the game mechanics and builds player equity with the game. In addition, removing the underlying reel prior to (e.g., without) determining a reel outcome improves technical functionality of the computer system by balancing the RTP against the multiplier values while simplifying the user interface and underlying processing for the game.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a detailed description of various examples, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates several different models of EGMs that may be networked to various gaming related servers.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram depicting exemplary internal electronic components of a gaming device connected to various external systems.

FIG. 2B depicts a casino gaming environment, according to one example.

FIG. 2C is a diagram that shows examples of components of a system for providing online gaming, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an implementation of a game processing architecture that implements a game processing pipeline for the play of a game in accordance with various implementations described herein.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are flowcharts illustrating an example technique for randomly assigned multiplier values based on random game outcomes, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are example screen displays illustrating special symbols, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an example screen display illustrating activation of the extra wild feature, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is an example screen display illustrating multiplier ladder merging, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is an example screen display illustrating multiplier ladder merging, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

The same reference number is used in the drawings for the same or similar (either by function and/or structure) features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present disclosure are generally directed to randomly activating a multiplier ladder for a reel and merging multiple adjacent multiplier ladders. The set of reels includes a number of special symbols, which are symbols that can contribute to a “win combination” (i.e., pay path). In some examples, the special symbols may include conventional multiplier symbols, which are associated with a specific multiplier value. This conventional multiplier value may be applied to any potential payout shown in the outcome of the reels in the reel grid, and the pay evaluation of a “win combination” includes a product of the assigned multipliers.
In some cases, the special symbols may also include a “wild” symbol, where a multiplier associated with the wild symbol is randomly determined, for example, using a random number generator and a lookup table. In some cases, when a wild symbol lands on a current reel, that reel is replaced with a multiplier ladder that displays potential multiplier values that may be randomly selected for the wild symbol. The multiplier ladder may be a set of multiplier values arranged in an order, such as in an increasing order from a bottom of the ladder to the top of the ladder. A multiplier value of the set of multiplier values may be randomly selected for the multiplier ladder. An animated selection effect from among the potential multiplier values may be displayed to illustrate the selection of the multiplier value for the wild symbol from among potential multiplier values.
In some cases, the special symbols may include an “extra wild” symbol. When the extra wild symbol lands for a reel, an animation effect may be displayed on or above the reel indicating that the reel is an extra wild reel. For each extra wild reel on each spin, the gaming system may perform a lookup operation to determine whether an extra wild feature of the reel is active for the given spin. If the extra wild feature of the reel is active for the given spin, that reel is replaced with a multiplier ladder.
Where adjacent reels are replaced by multiplier ladders, for example by either a wild symbol landing or via the extra wild feature, the adjacent multiplier ladders may be merged into a single multiplier ladder. In some cases, this merged multiplier ladder may be sized to replace the adjacent reels. Where adjacent multiplier ladders are merged, an animation effect may be displayed illustrating the merging of the adjacent multiplier ladders. The multipliers on the merged multiplier ladder may be a product of a determined multiplier of one multiplier ladder and initial multiplier values of the adjacent reel. For example, multiplier ladders may initially have a set of initial multiplier values, such as the values 4×, 5×, 6×, 7×, and 8×. The set of initial multiplier values may be predetermined and follow a set sequence. If a multiplier value for a first multiplier ladder is randomly selected to be the 5× multiplier value, and this first multiplier ladder is merged with a second multiplier ladder, multiplier values of the set of initial multiplier values for the second multiplier ladder may be multiplied by the 5× multiplier value of the first multiplier ladder. In this example, the merged multiplier ladder may include the multiplier values of 20×, 25×, 30×, 35×, and 40×. In some cases, more than two adjacent multiplier ladders may be merged. For example, three adjacent multiplier ladders may be merged into a single multiplier ladder. Merging adjacent multiplier ladders is technically challenging to convey to a user as it is a new mechanic which can occur after a user initiated action, such as a spin, but before the outcome of that user initiated action is resolved (e.g., while the reels appear to be spinning) which also involves an interaction across multiple reels. These merged multiplier ladder presents another technical challenge due to the large multiplier values that can result from multiple merged multiplier ladders, which can increase the RTP.
In terms of technical effects, the gaming device achieves a designated game volatility and RTP that complies with regulation for a game feature that assigns a multiplier value based on when a symbol lands on a reel or when a reel is selected under certain conditions. In contrast to conventional game features that assign multiplier values to a symbol, the present gaming devices, methods, and systems increase the multiplier value based on a determination that adjacent reels have multipliers. By doing so, a gaming system could apply a relatively large multiplier value to the winning award. For example, if a reel that lands a first wild symbol or if the extra wild feature is active for the reel, the gaming system replaces the first reel with a multiplier ladder with multiplier values ranging from 4×-8×. If a second wild symbol lands on an adjacent second reel, or if the extra wild feature is also active for the adjacent second reel, the gaming system also replaces this second reel with a multiplier ladder with multiplier values ranging from 4×-8×. These adjacent reels can be replaced with a merged multiplier ladder with multiplier values possible ranging up to 64×. If a third wild symbol lands on a third adjacent reel, or if the extra wild feature is also active on the third adjacent reel, the gaming system may replace the third reel with a multiplier ladder with multiplier values ranging from 4×-8×. The three multiplier values may then be multiplied together to potentially generate a 512× multiplier.
Additionally, when the extra wild feature is triggered, the gaming system can generate one or more indicators that appears above one or more reels. These indicator(s) can identify reels on which the extra wild feature can be enabled on subsequent spins. The indicator(s) above the reels remain in place for the duration of the feature. For each reel where the extra wild feature can be enabled on a given spin, the gaming system performs a lookup operation to determine whether the reel becomes an extra wild reel. For each activated extra wild reel, a multiplier ladder replaces the reel for the given spin. The multiplier ladder assigns a random multiplier value to the extra wild reel. Without proper balancing, increasing the multiplier value for each subsequent reel and activating the extra wild feature could greatly increase the potential payout and violate regulatory requirements.
Replacing a reel with the multiplier ladder and not spinning the underlying reel balances the RTP against the multiplier value. For example, generally, for each reel strip presented to the user, a separate RNG call is made to determine the reel stop. Thus, for example, one RNG call is made for stopping a first reel and a second RNG call is made for stopping a second reel. Where a reel, such as the first reel, is replaced by a multiplier ladder, a RNG call is not made for the corresponding replaced reel. For example, if reels 1 and 2 are replaced by multiplier ladders, no RNG call is made for reel 1 and no RNG call is made for reel 2. Not making the RNG call for certain reels can be beneficial in three ways. The first benefit of stopping the reel and not making the RNG call is that doing so helps allow for better control of the RTP for each spin as symbols that would have landed on the replaced reel are no longer in the game outcome. For example, if reel 1 and reel 2 were allowed to spin in the background, reel 1 and reel 2 would land on symbols. These landed symbols could be high value symbols (e.g., wild symbols) or symbols which would prolong a bonus feature (e.g., a free spin symbol). Such symbols could increase the RTP as compared to replacing the reel.
The second benefit of not making the RNG call is that this helps reduce a number of processing steps. Specifically, no RNG call and corresponding lookup operation to determine reel stops are needed for the replaced reels. Further, no separate pay evaluation/game outcome evaluation needs to be performed. For example, where the game includes five reels, the game does not need to perform a pay evaluation for the game outcome from all five regular reels along with determining game outcomes for the replaced reels (e.g., for the replaced reels).
The third benefit of not making the RNG call is that this simplifies the game presentation shown to the player. Regulations require that the game show how a player wins. As a result, if the reels were not replaced by the multiplier ladder, the UI would show outcomes of, for example, five regular reels, along with multiplier ladder outcomes concurrently. A UI issue could arise from such a presentation trying to display all of these elements, potentially complicating the UI where the multiplier ladder is displayed using overlays. Resizing the reels could further complicate the UI due to usability concerns, scaling, etc. By removing the underlying spin and reels, such potential UI issues are avoided.
Additionally, in some cases, RTP may be balanced by making fewer available special symbols on one or more later reel strips as compared to one or more earlier reels so that landing a special symbol is more likely for the one or more earlier reels than for the one or more later reels. For example, reels 2 and 3 may have more available special symbols than reels 4 and 5. In the case of randomly assigned multipliers for stacked reels, the RTP can be balanced by using weighted lookup tables or by using different lookup tables for different reels to determine the multiplier.
The gaming system also improves computer usability and enhances the player's understanding and experience. For example, by replacing the reel with a multiplier ladder, the gaming system helps the player better understand the outcome of the reel and the potential effect of the multiplier ladder on the outcome of the game. Additionally, where the multiplier value is randomly selected from among a set of potential multiplier values, presenting the multiplier ladder to the player helps the player understand the random nature of the multiplier value and determine what multiplier value is selected. As another example, displaying an indication that certain reels can randomly be replaced by multiplier ladders helps the player to understand that those certain reels may be replaced. An animation effect that includes the indication that certain reels can be replaced and replacing the reel with the multiplier ladder helps the player understand that the extra wild feature has been activated for the reel. Further, by displaying adjacent stacked reels with a merged multiplier representing the product of the assigned multiplier for each reel, the gaming system helps the player easily understand the combined effect of the reel outcomes. In a sense, the gaming system is optimizing the display of pay lines by simplifying the concept of multiple multipliers for the player such that the player does not need to calculate an effect of multiple multipliers, but can instead instantly see the value of the merged multiplier ladders in the form of the displayed multiplier. As such, the gaming system also changes the way a player builds equity in the game (by assigning larger, merged multiplier values), while also making it easier for the player to understand how to build that equity. Displaying the stacked symbols as a single symbol, assigning a multiplier value to the reel based on the number of preceding stacked reels (which result from random outcomes), and merging multipliers of stacked reels represents new EGM functionality not previously implemented that provides another approach to presenting how a gaming device builds equity in a game, improves the usability of the gaming device, and enhances a player's understanding of obtaining certain game outcomes.
In some examples, various described features may be implemented as part of a base game, a bonus game, a feature game, or a combination of these.
FIG. 1 illustrates several different models of EGMs that may be networked to various gaming related servers. Shown is a system 100 in a gaming environment including one or more server computers 102 (e.g., slot servers of a casino) that are in communication, via a communications network, with one or more gaming devices 104A-104X (EGMs, slots, video poker, bingo machines, etc.) that can implement one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The gaming devices 104A-104X may alternatively be portable and/or remote gaming devices, such as, but not limited to, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, or a game console. Gaming devices 104A-104X utilize specialized software and/or hardware to form non-generic, particular machines or apparatuses that comply with regulatory requirements regarding devices used for wagering or games of chance that provide monetary awards.
Communication between the gaming devices 104A-104X and the server computers 102, and among the gaming devices 104A-104X, may be direct or indirect using one or more communication protocols. As an example, gaming devices 104A-104X and the server computers 102 can communicate over one or more communication networks, such as over the Internet through a website maintained by a computer on a remote server or over an online data network including commercial online service providers, Internet service providers, private networks (e.g., local area networks and enterprise networks), and the like (e.g., wide area networks). The communication networks could allow gaming devices 104A-104X to communicate with one another and/or the server computers 102 using a variety of communication-based technologies, such as radio frequency (RF) (e.g., wireless fidelity (WiFi®) and Bluetooth®), cable TV, satellite links and the like.
In some implementation, server computers 102 may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, in one or more implementations, a stand-alone gaming device such as gaming device 104A, gaming device 104B or any of the other gaming devices 104C-104X can implement one or more aspects of the present disclosure. However, it is typical to find multiple EGMs connected to networks implemented with one or more of the different server computers 102 described herein.
The server computers 102 may include a central determination gaming system server 106, a ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) system server 108, a player tracking system server 110, a progressive system server 112, and/or a casino management system server 114. Gaming devices 104A-104X may include features to enable operation of any or all servers for use by the player and/or operator (e.g., the casino, resort, gaming establishment, tavern, pub, etc.). For example, game outcomes may be generated on a central determination gaming system server 106 and then transmitted over the network to any group of remote terminals or remote gaming devices 104A-104X that utilize the game outcomes and display the results to the players.
Gaming device 104A is often of a cabinet construction, which may be aligned in rows or banks of similar devices for placement and operation on a casino floor. The gaming device 104A often includes a main door that provides access to the interior of the cabinet. Gaming device 104A typically includes a button area or button deck 120 accessible by a player that is configured with input switches or buttons 122, an access channel for a bill validator 124, and/or an access channel for a ticket-out printer 126.
In FIG. 1 , gaming device 104A is shown as a Relm XL™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. As shown, gaming device 104A is a reel machine having a gaming display area 118 comprising a number (typically 3 or 5) of mechanical reels 130 with various symbols displayed on them. The mechanical reels 130 are independently spun and stopped to show a set of symbols within the gaming display area 118 that may be used to determine an outcome to the game.
In many configurations, the gaming device 104A may have a main display 128 (e.g., video display monitor) mounted to, or above, the gaming display area 118. The main display 128 can be a high-resolution liquid crystal display (LCD), plasma, light emitting diode (LED), or organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel that may be flat or curved as shown, a cathode ray tube, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor.
In some implementations, the bill validator 124 may also function as a “ticket-in” reader that allows the player to use a casino issued credit ticket to load credits onto the gaming device 104A (e.g., in a cashless ticket (“TITO”) system). In such cashless implementations, the gaming device 104A may also include a “ticket-out” printer 126 for outputting a credit ticket when a “cash out” button is pressed. Cashless TITO systems are used to generate and track unique bar-codes or other indicators printed on tickets to allow players to avoid the use of bills and coins by loading credits using a ticket reader and cashing out credits using a ticket-out printer 126 on the gaming device 104A. The gaming device 104A can have hardware meters for purposes including ensuring regulatory compliance and monitoring the player credit balance. In addition, there can be additional meters that record the total amount of money wagered on the gaming device, total amount of money deposited, total amount of money withdrawn, and total amount of winnings on gaming device 104A.
In some implementations, a player tracking card reader 144, a transceiver for wireless communication with a mobile device (e.g., a player's smartphone), a keypad 146, and/or an illuminated display 148 for reading, receiving, entering, and/or displaying player tracking information is provided in gaming device 104A. In such implementations, a game controller within the gaming device 104A can communicate with the player tracking system server 110 to send and receive player tracking information.
Gaming device 104A may also include a bonus topper wheel 134. When bonus play is triggered (e.g., by a player achieving a particular outcome or set of outcomes in the primary game), bonus topper wheel 134 is operative to spin and stop with indicator arrow 136 indicating the outcome of the bonus game. Bonus topper wheel 134 is typically used to play a bonus game, but it could also be incorporated into play of the base or primary game.
A candle 138 may be mounted on the top of gaming device 104A and may be activated by a player (e.g., using a switch or one of buttons 122) to indicate to operations staff that gaming device 104A has experienced a malfunction or the player requires service. The candle 138 is also often used to indicate a jackpot has been won and to alert staff that a hand payout of an award may be needed.
There may also be one or more information panels 152, which may be a back-lit, silkscreened glass panel with lettering to indicate general game information including, for example, a game denomination (e.g., $0.25 or $1), pay lines, pay tables, and/or various game related graphics. In some implementations, the information panel(s) 152 may be implemented as an additional video display.
Gaming devices 104A have traditionally also included a handle 132 typically mounted to the side of main cabinet 116 that may be used to initiate game play.
Many or all the above described components can be controlled by circuitry (e.g., a game controller) housed inside the main cabinet 116 of the gaming device 104A, the details of which are shown in FIG. 2A.
An alternative example gaming device 104B illustrated in FIG. 1 is the Arc™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Note that where possible, reference numerals identifying similar features of the gaming device 104A implementation are also identified in the gaming device 104B implementation using the same reference numbers. Gaming device 104B does not include physical reels and instead shows game play functions on main display 128. An optional topper screen 140 may be used as a secondary game display for bonus play, to show game features or attraction activities while a game is not in play, or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. In some implementations, the optional topper screen 140 may also or alternatively be used to display progressive jackpot prizes available to a player during play of gaming device 104B.
Example gaming device 104B includes a main cabinet 116, including a main door that opens to provide access to the interior of the gaming device 104B. The main or service door is typically used by service personnel to refill the ticket-out printer 126 and collect bills and tickets inserted into the bill validator 124. The main or service door may also be accessed to reset the machine, verify and/or upgrade the software, and for general maintenance operations.
Another example gaming device 104C shown is the Helix™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Gaming device 104C includes a main display 128A that is in a landscape orientation. Although not illustrated by the front view provided, the main display 128A may have a curvature radius from top to bottom, or alternatively from side to side. In some implementations, main display 128A is a flat panel display. Main display 128A is typically used for primary game play while secondary display 128B is typically used for bonus game play, to show game features or attraction activities while the game is not in play or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. In some implementations, example gaming device 104C may also include speakers 142 to output various audio such as game sound, background music, etc.
Many different types of games, including mechanical slot games, video slot games, video poker, video blackjack, video pachinko, keno, bingo, and lottery, may be provided with or implemented within the depicted gaming devices 104A-104C and other similar gaming devices. Each gaming device may also be operable to provide many different games. Games may be differentiated according to themes, sounds, graphics, type of game (e.g., slot game vs. card game vs. game with aspects of skill), denomination, number of pay lines, maximum jackpot, progressive or non-progressive, bonus games, and may be deployed for operation in Class 2 or Class 3, etc.
FIG. 2A is a block diagram depicting exemplary internal electronic components of a gaming device 200 connected to various external systems. All or parts of the gaming device 200 shown could be used to implement any one of the example gaming devices 104A-X depicted in FIG. 1 . As shown in FIG. 2A, gaming device 200 includes a topper display 216 or another form of a top box (e.g., a topper wheel, a topper screen, etc.) that sits above cabinet 218. Cabinet 218 or topper display 216 may also house a number of other components that may be used to add features to a game being played on gaming device 200, including speakers 220, a ticket printer 222 that prints bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player's credit value, a ticket reader 224 that reads bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player's credit value, and a player tracking interface 232. Player tracking interface 232 may include a keypad 226 for entering information, a player tracking display 228 for displaying information (e.g., an illuminated or video display), a card reader 230 for receiving data and/or communicating information to and from media or a device, such as a smart phone, enabling player tracking. FIG. 2A also depicts utilizing a ticket printer 222 to print tickets for a TITO system server 108. Gaming device 200 may further include a bill validator 234, player-input buttons 236 for player input, cabinet security sensors 238 to detect unauthorized opening of the cabinet 218, a primary game display 240, and a secondary game display 242, each coupled to and operable under the control of game controller 202.
The games available for play on the gaming device 200 are controlled by a game controller 202 that includes one or more processors 204. Processor 204 represents a general-purpose processor, a specialized processor intended to perform certain functional tasks, or a combination thereof. As an example, processor 204 can be a central processing unit (CPU) that has one or more multi-core processing units and memory mediums (e.g., cache memory) that function as buffers and/or temporary storage for data. Alternatively, processor 204 can be a specialized processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), graphics processing unit (GPU), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), or another type of hardware accelerator. In another example, processor 204 is a system on chip (SoC) that combines and integrates one or more general-purpose processors and/or one or more specialized processors. Although FIG. 2A illustrates that game controller 202 includes a single processor 204, game controller 202 is not limited to this representation and instead can include multiple processors 204 (e.g., two or more processors).
FIG. 2A illustrates that processor 204 is operatively coupled to memory 208. Memory 208 is defined herein as including volatile and nonvolatile memory and other types of non-transitory data storage components. Volatile memory is memory that do not retain data values upon loss of power. Nonvolatile memory is memory that do retain data upon a loss of power. Examples of memory 208 include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, solid-state drives, universal serial bus (USB) flash drives, memory cards accessed via a memory card reader, floppy disks accessed via an associated floppy disk drive, optical discs accessed via an optical disc drive, magnetic tapes accessed via an appropriate tape drive, and/or other memory components, or a combination of any two or more of these memory components. In addition, examples of RAM include static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), and other such devices. Examples of ROM include a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other like memory device. Even though FIG. 2A illustrates that game controller 202 includes a single memory 208, game controller 202 could include multiple memories 208 for storing program instructions and/or data.
Memory 208 can store one or more game programs 206 that provide program instructions and/or data for carrying out various implementations (e.g., game mechanics) described herein. Stated another way, game program 206 represents an executable program stored in any portion or component of memory 208. In one or more implementations, game program 206 is embodied in the form of source code that includes human-readable statements written in a programming language or machine code that contains numerical instructions recognizable by a suitable execution system, such as a processor 204 in a game controller or other system. Examples of executable programs include: (1) a compiled program that can be translated into machine code in a format that can be loaded into a random access portion of memory 208 and run by processor 204; (2) source code that may be expressed in proper format, such as object code that is capable of being loaded into a random access portion of memory 208 and executed by processor 204; and (3) source code that may be interpreted by another executable program to generate instructions in a random access portion of memory 208 to be executed by processor 204.
Alternatively, game programs 206 can be set up to generate one or more game instances based on instructions and/or data that gaming device 200 exchanges with one or more remote gaming devices, such as a central determination gaming system server 106 (not shown in FIG. 2A but shown in FIG. 1 ). For the purpose of this disclosure, the term “game instance” refers to a play or a round of a game that gaming device 200 presents (e.g., via a user interface (UI)) to a player. The game instance is communicated to gaming device 200 via the network 214 and then displayed on gaming device 200. For example, gaming device 200 may execute game program 206 as video streaming software that allows the game to be displayed on gaming device 200. When a game is stored on gaming device 200, it may be loaded from memory 208 (e.g., from a read only memory (ROM)) or from the central determination gaming system server 106 to memory 208.
Gaming devices, such as gaming device 200, are highly regulated to ensure fairness and, in many cases, gaming device 200 is operable to award monetary awards (e.g., typically dispensed in the form of a redeemable voucher). Therefore, to satisfy security and regulatory requirements in a gaming environment, hardware and software architectures are implemented in gaming device 200 that differ significantly from those of general-purpose computers. Adapting general purpose computers to function as gaming device 200 is not simple or straightforward because: (1) the regulatory requirements for gaming device 200, (2) the harsh environment in which gaming device 200 operate, (3) security requirements, (4) fault tolerance requirements, and (5) the requirement for additional special purpose componentry enabling functionality of an EGM. These differences require substantial engineering effort with respect to game design implementation, game mechanics, hardware components, and software.
One regulatory requirement for games running on gaming device 200 generally involves complying with a certain level of randomness. Typically, gaming jurisdictions mandate that gaming device 200 satisfy a minimum level of randomness without specifying how a gaming device 200 should achieve this level of randomness. To comply, FIG. 2A illustrates that gaming device 200 could include an RNG 212 that utilizes hardware and/or software to generate RNG outcomes that lack any pattern. The RNG operations are often specialized and non-generic in order to comply with regulatory and gaming requirements. For example, in a slot game, game program 206 can initiate multiple RNG calls to RNG 212 to generate RNG outcomes, where each RNG call and RNG outcome corresponds to an outcome for a reel. In another example, gaming device 200 can be a Class II gaming device where RNG 212 generates RNG outcomes for creating Bingo cards. In one or more implementations, RNG 212 could be one of a set of RNGs operating on gaming device 200. More generally, an output of the RNG 212 can be the basis on which game outcomes are determined by the game controller 202. Game developers could vary the degree of true randomness for each RNG (e.g., pseudorandom) and utilize specific RNGs depending on game requirements. The output of the RNG 212 can include a random number or pseudorandom number (either is generally referred to as a “random number”).
In FIG. 2A, RNG 212 and hardware RNG 244 are shown in dashed lines to illustrate that RNG 212, hardware RNG 244, or both can be included in gaming device 200. In one implementation, instead of including RNG 212, gaming device 200 could include a hardware RNG 244 that generates RNG outcomes. Analogous to RNG 212, hardware RNG 244 performs specialized and non-generic operations in order to comply with regulatory and gaming requirements. For example, because of regulation requirements, hardware RNG 244 could be a random number generator that securely produces random numbers for cryptography use. The gaming device 200 then uses the secure random numbers to generate game outcomes for one or more game features. In another implementation, the gaming device 200 could include both hardware RNG 244 and RNG 212. RNG 212 may utilize the RNG outcomes from hardware RNG 244 as one of many sources of entropy for generating secure random numbers for the game features.
Another regulatory requirement for running games on gaming device 200 includes ensuring a certain level of RTP. Similar to the randomness requirement discussed above, numerous gaming jurisdictions also mandate that gaming device 200 provides a minimum level of RTP (e.g., RTP of at least 75%). A game can use one or more lookup tables (also called weighted tables) as part of a technical solution that satisfies regulatory requirements for randomness and RTP. In particular, a lookup table can integrate game features (e.g., trigger events for special modes or bonus games; newly introduced game elements such as extra reels, new symbols, or new cards; stop positions for dynamic game elements such as spinning reels, spinning wheels, or shifting reels; or card selections from a deck) with random numbers generated by one or more RNGs, so as to achieve a given level of volatility for a target level of RTP. (In general, volatility refers to the frequency or probability of an event such as a special mode, payout, etc. For example, for a target level of RTP, a higher-volatility game may have a lower payout most of the time with an occasional bonus having a very high payout, while a lower-volatility game has a steadier payout with more frequent bonuses of smaller amounts.) Configuring a lookup table can involve engineering decisions with respect to how RNG outcomes are mapped to game outcomes for a given game feature, while still satisfying regulatory requirements for RTP. Configuring a lookup table can also involve engineering decisions about whether different game features are combined in a given entry of the lookup table or split between different entries (for the respective game features), while still satisfying regulatory requirements for RTP and allowing for varying levels of game volatility.
FIG. 2A illustrates that gaming device 200 includes an RNG conversion engine 210 that translates the RNG outcome from RNG 212 to a game outcome presented to a player. To meet a designated RTP, a game developer can set up the RNG conversion engine 210 to utilize one or more lookup tables to translate the RNG outcome to a symbol element, stop position on a reel strip layout, and/or randomly chosen aspect of a game feature. As an example, the lookup tables can regulate a prize payout amount for each RNG outcome and how often the gaming device 200 pays out the prize payout amounts. The RNG conversion engine 210 could utilize one lookup table to map the RNG outcome to a game outcome displayed to a player and a second lookup table as a pay table for determining the prize payout amount for each game outcome. The mapping between the RNG outcome to the game outcome controls the frequency in hitting certain prize payout amounts.
FIG. 2A also depicts that gaming device 200 is connected over network 214 to player tracking system server 110. Player tracking system server 110 may be, for example, an OASIS® system manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Player tracking system server 110 is used to track play (e.g., amount wagered, games played, time of play and/or other quantitative or qualitative measures) for individual players so that an operator may reward players in a loyalty program. The player may use the player tracking interface 232 to access their account information, activate free play, and/or request various information. Player tracking or loyalty programs seek to reward players for their play and help build brand loyalty to the gaming establishment. The rewards typically correspond to the player's level of patronage (e.g., to the player's playing frequency and/or total amount of game plays at a given casino). Player tracking rewards may be complimentary and/or discounted meals, lodging, entertainment and/or additional play. Player tracking information may be combined with other information that is now readily obtainable by a casino management system.
When a player wishes to play the gaming device 200, they can insert cash or a ticket voucher through a coin acceptor (not shown) or bill validator 234 to establish a credit balance on the gaming device. The credit balance is used by the player to place wagers on instances of the game and to receive credit awards based on the outcome of winning instances. The credit balance is decreased by the amount of each wager and increased upon a win. The player can add additional credits to the balance at any time. The player may also optionally insert a loyalty club card into the card reader 230. During the game, the player views with one or more UIs, the game outcome on one or more of the primary game display 240 and secondary game display 242. Other game and prize information may also be displayed.
For each game instance, a player may make selections that may affect play of the game. For example, the player may vary the total amount wagered by selecting the amount bet per line and the number of lines played. In many games, the player is asked to initiate or select options during course of game play (such as spinning a wheel to begin a bonus round or select various items during a feature game). The player may make these selections using the player-input buttons 236, the primary game display 240, which may be a touch screen, or using some other device that enables a player to input information into the gaming device 200.
During certain game events, the gaming device 200 may display visual and auditory effects that can be perceived by the player. These effects add to the excitement of a game, which makes a player more likely to enjoy the playing experience. Auditory effects include various sounds that are projected by the speakers 220. Visual effects include flashing lights, strobing lights or other patterns displayed from lights on the gaming device 200 or from lights behind the information panel 152 (FIG. 1 ).
When the player is done, they cash out the credit balance (typically by pressing a cash out button to receive a ticket from the ticket printer 222). The ticket may be “cashed-in” for money or inserted into another machine to establish a credit balance for play.
Additionally, or alternatively, gaming devices 104A-104X and 200 can include or be coupled to one or more wireless transmitters, receivers, and/or transceivers (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A) that communicate (e.g., Bluetooth® or other near-field communication technology) with one or more mobile devices to perform a variety of wireless operations in a casino environment. Examples of wireless operations in a casino environment include detecting the presence of mobile devices, performing credit, points, comps, or other marketing or hard currency transfers, establishing wagering sessions, and/or providing a personalized casino-based experience using a mobile application. In one implementation, to perform these wireless operations, a wireless transmitter or transceiver initiates a secure wireless connection between a gaming device 104A-104X and 200 and a mobile device. After establishing a secure wireless connection between the gaming device 104A-104X and 200 and the mobile device, the wireless transmitter or transceiver does not send and/or receive application data to and/or from the mobile device. Rather, the mobile device communicates with gaming devices 104A-104X and 200 using another wireless connection (e.g., WiFi® or cellular network). In another implementation, a wireless transceiver establishes a secure connection to directly communicate with the mobile device. The mobile device and gaming device 104A-104X and 200 send and receive data utilizing the wireless transceiver instead of utilizing an external network. For example, the mobile device would perform digital wallet transactions by directly communicating with the wireless transceiver. In one or more implementations, a wireless transmitter could broadcast data received by one or more mobile devices without establishing a pairing connection with the mobile devices.
Although FIGS. 1 and 2A illustrate specific implementations of a gaming device (e.g., gaming devices 104A-104X and 200), the disclosure is not limited to those implementations shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . For example, not all gaming devices suitable for implementing implementations of the present disclosure necessarily include top wheels, top boxes, information panels, cashless ticket systems, and/or player tracking systems. Further, some suitable gaming devices have only a single game display that includes only a mechanical set of reels and/or a video display, while others are designed for bar counters or tabletops and have displays that face upwards. Gaming devices 104A-104X and 200 may also include other processors that are not separately shown. Using FIG. 2A as an example, gaming device 200 could include display controllers (not shown in FIG. 2A) configured to receive video input signals or instructions to display images on game displays 240 and 242. Alternatively, such display controllers may be integrated into the game controller 202. The use and discussion of FIGS. 1 and 2 are examples to facilitate ease of description and explanation.
FIG. 2B depicts a casino gaming environment according to one example. In this example, the casino 251 includes banks 252 of EGMs 104. In this example, each bank 252 of EGMs 104 includes a corresponding gaming signage system 254 (also shown in FIG. 2A). According to this implementation, the casino 251 also includes mobile gaming devices 256, which are also configured to present wagering games in this example. The mobile gaming devices 256 may, for example, include tablet devices, cellular phones, smart phones and/or other handheld devices. In this example, the mobile gaming devices 256 are configured for communication with one or more other devices in the casino 251, including, but not limited to, one or more of the server computers 102 via wireless access points 258.
According to some examples, the mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured for stand-alone determination of game outcomes. However, in some alternative implementations, the mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured to receive game outcomes from another device, such as the central determination gaming system server 106, one of the EGMs 104, etc.
Some mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured to accept monetary credits from a credit or debit card, via a wireless interface (e.g., via a wireless payment app), via tickets, via a patron casino account, etc. However, some mobile gaming devices 256 may not be configured to accept monetary credits via a credit or debit card. Some mobile gaming devices 256 may include a ticket reader and/or a ticket printer whereas some mobile gaming devices 256 may not, depending on the particular implementation.
In some implementations, the casino 251 may include one or more kiosks 260 that are configured to facilitate monetary transactions involving the mobile gaming devices 256, which may include cash out and/or cash in transactions. The kiosks 260 may be configured for wired and/or wireless communication with the mobile gaming devices 256. The kiosks 260 may be configured to accept monetary credits from casino patrons 262 and/or to dispense monetary credits to casino patrons 262 via cash, a credit or debit card, via a wireless interface (e.g., via a wireless payment app), via tickets, etc. According to some examples, the kiosks 260 may be configured to accept monetary credits from a casino patron and to provide a corresponding amount of monetary credits to a mobile gaming device 256 for wagering purposes, e.g., via a wireless link such as a near-field communications link. In some such examples, when a casino patron 262 is ready to cash out, the casino patron 262 may select a cash out option provided by a mobile gaming device 256, which may include a real button or a virtual button (e.g., a button provided via a graphical user interface) in some instances. In some such examples, the mobile gaming device 256 may send a “cash out” signal to a kiosk 260 via a wireless link in response to receiving a “cash out” indication from a casino patron. The kiosk 260 may provide monetary credits to the casino patron 262 corresponding to the “cash out” signal, which may be in the form of cash, a credit ticket, a credit transmitted to a financial account corresponding to the casino patron, etc.
In some implementations, a cash in process and/or a cash out process may be facilitated by the TITO system server 108. For example, the TITO system server 108 may control, or at least authorize, ticket-in and ticket-out transactions that involve a mobile gaming device 256 and/or a kiosk 260.
Some mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured for receiving and/or transmitting player loyalty information. For example, some mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured for wireless communication with the player tracking system server 110. Some mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured for receiving and/or transmitting player loyalty information via wireless communication with a patron's player loyalty card, a patron's smartphone, etc.
According to some implementations, a mobile gaming device 256 may be configured to provide safeguards that prevent the mobile gaming device 256 from being used by an unauthorized person. For example, some mobile gaming devices 256 may include one or more biometric sensors and may be configured to receive input via the biometric sensor(s) to verify the identity of an authorized patron. Some mobile gaming devices 256 may be configured to function only within a predetermined or configurable area, such as a casino gaming area.
FIG. 2C is a diagram that shows examples of components of a system for providing online gaming, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. As with other figures presented in this disclosure, the numbers, types and arrangements of gaming devices shown in FIG. 2C are merely shown by way of example. In this example, various gaming devices, including, but not limited to, end user devices (EUDs) 264 a, 264 b and 264 c are capable of communication via one or more networks 417. The networks 417 may, for example, include one or more cellular telephone networks, the Internet, etc. In this example, the EUDs 264 a and 264 b are mobile devices; according to this example, the EUD 264 a is a tablet device and the EUD 264 b is a smart phone. In this implementation, the EUD 264 c is a laptop computer that is located within a residence 266 at the time depicted in FIG. 2C. Accordingly, in this example, the hardware of EUDs is not specifically configured for online gaming, although each EUD is configured with software for online gaming. For example, each EUD may be configured with a web browser. Other implementations may include other types of EUDs, some of which may be specifically configured for online gaming.
In this example, a gaming data center 276 includes various devices that are configured to provide online wagering games via the networks 417. The gaming data center 276 is capable of communication with the networks 417 via the gateway 272. In this example, switches 278 and routers 280 are configured to provide network connectivity for devices of the gaming data center 276, including storage devices 282 a, servers 284 a and one or more workstations 286 a. The servers 284 a may, for example, be configured to provide access to a library of games for online game play. In some examples, code for executing at least some of the games may initially be stored on one or more of the storage devices 282 a. The code may be subsequently loaded onto a server 284 a after selection by a player via an EUD and communication of that selection from the EUD via the networks 417. The server 284 a onto which code for the selected game has been loaded may provide the game according to selections made by a player and indicated via the player's EUD. In other examples, code for executing at least some of the games may initially be stored on one or more of the servers 284 a. Although only one gaming data center 276 is shown in FIG. 2C, some implementations may include multiple gaming data centers 276.
In this example, a financial institution data center 270 is also configured for communication via the networks 417. Here, the financial institution data center 270 includes servers 284 b, storage devices 282 b, and one or more workstations 286 b. According to this example, the financial institution data center 270 is configured to maintain financial accounts, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, loan accounts, etc. In some implementations, one or more of the authorized users 274 a-274 c may maintain at least one financial account with the financial institution that is serviced via the financial institution data center 270.
According to some implementations, the gaming data center 276 may be configured to provide online wagering games in which money may be won or lost. According to some such implementations, one or more of the servers 284 a may be configured to monitor player credit balances, which may be expressed in game credits, in currency units, or in any other appropriate manner. In some implementations, the server(s) 284 a may be configured to obtain financial credits from and/or provide financial credits to one or more financial institutions, according to a player's “cash in” selections, wagering game results and a player's “cash out” instructions. According to some such implementations, the server(s) 284 a may be configured to electronically credit or debit the account of a player that is maintained by a financial institution, e.g., an account that is maintained via the financial institution data center 270. The server(s) 284 a may, in some examples, be configured to maintain an audit record of such transactions.
In some alternative implementations, the gaming data center 276 may be configured to provide online wagering games for which credits may not be exchanged for cash or the equivalent. In some such examples, players may purchase game credits for online game play, but may not “cash out” for monetary credit after a gaming session. Moreover, although the financial institution data center 270 and the gaming data center 276 include their own servers and storage devices in this example, in some examples the financial institution data center 270 and/or the gaming data center 276 may use offsite “cloud-based” servers and/or storage devices. In some alternative examples, the financial institution data center 270 and/or the gaming data center 276 may rely entirely on cloud-based servers.
One or more types of devices in the gaming data center 276 (or elsewhere) may be capable of executing middleware, e.g., for data management and/or device communication. Authentication information, player tracking information, etc., including but not limited to information obtained by EUDs 264 and/or other information regarding authorized users of EUDs 264 (including but not limited to the authorized users 274 a-274 c), may be stored on storage devices 282 and/or servers 284. Other game-related information and/or software, such as information and/or software relating to leaderboards, players currently playing a game, game themes, game-related promotions, game competitions, etc., also may be stored on storage devices 282 and/or servers 284. In some implementations, some such game-related software may be available as “apps” and may be downloadable (e.g., from the gaming data center 276) by authorized users.
In some examples, authorized users and/or entities (such as representatives of gaming regulatory authorities) may obtain gaming-related information via the gaming data center 276. One or more other devices (such EUDs 264 or devices of the gaming data center 276) may act as intermediaries for such data feeds. Such devices may, for example, be capable of applying data filtering algorithms, executing data summary and/or analysis software, etc. In some implementations, data filtering, summary and/or analysis software may be available as “apps” and downloadable by authorized users.
FIG. 3 illustrates, in block diagram form, an implementation of a game processing architecture 300 that implements a game processing pipeline for the play of a game in accordance with various implementations described herein. As shown in FIG. 3 , the gaming processing pipeline starts with having a UI system 302 receive one or more player inputs for the game instance. Based on the player input(s), the UI system 302 generates and sends one or more RNG calls to a game processing backend system 314. Game processing backend system 314 then processes the RNG calls with RNG engine 316 to generate one or more RNG outcomes. The RNG outcomes are then sent to the RNG conversion engine 320 to generate one or more game outcomes for the UI system 302 to display to a player. The game processing architecture 300 can implement the game processing pipeline using a gaming device, such as gaming devices 104A-104X and 200 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , respectively. Alternatively, portions of the gaming processing architecture 300 can implement the game processing pipeline using a gaming device and one or more remote gaming devices, such as central determination gaming system server 106 shown in FIG. 1 .
The UI system 302 includes one or more UIs that a player can interact with. The UI system 302 could include one or more game play UIs 304, one or more bonus game play UIs 308, and one or more multiplayer UIs 312, where each UI type includes one or more mechanical UIs and/or graphical UIs (GUIs). In other words, game play UI 304, bonus game play UI 308, and the multiplayer UI 312 may utilize a variety of UI elements, such as mechanical UI elements (e.g., physical “spin” button or mechanical reels) and/or GUI elements (e.g., virtual reels shown on a video display or a virtual button deck) to receive player inputs and/or present game play to a player. Using FIG. 3 as an example, the different UI elements are shown as game play UI elements 306A-306N and bonus game play UI elements 310A-310N.
The game play UI 304 represents a UI that a player typically interfaces with for a base game. During a game instance of a base game, the game play UI elements 306A-306N (e.g., GUI elements depicting one or more virtual reels) are shown and/or made available to a user. In a subsequent game instance, the UI system 302 could transition out of the base game to one or more bonus games. The bonus game play UI 308 represents a UI that utilizes bonus game play UI elements 310A-310N for a player to interact with and/or view during a bonus game. In one or more implementations, at least some of the game play UI elements 306A-306N are similar to the bonus game play UI elements 310A-310N. In other implementations, the game play UI elements 306A-306N can differ from the bonus game play UI elements 310A-310N.
FIG. 3 also illustrates that UI system 302 could include a multiplayer UI 312 purposed for game play that differs or is separate from the typical base game. For example, multiplayer UI 312 could be set up to receive player inputs and/or presents game play information relating to a tournament mode. When a gaming device transitions from a primary game mode that presents the base game to a tournament mode, a single gaming device is linked and synchronized to other gaming devices to generate a tournament outcome. For example, multiple RNG engines 316 corresponding to each gaming device could be collectively linked to determine a tournament outcome. To enhance a player's gaming experience, tournament mode can modify and synchronize sound, music, reel spin speed, and/or other operations of the gaming devices according to the tournament game play. After tournament game play ends, operators can switch back the gaming device from tournament mode to a primary game mode to present the base game. Although FIG. 3 does not explicitly depict that multiplayer UI 312 includes UI elements, multiplayer UI 312 could also include one or more multiplayer UI elements.
Based on the player inputs, the UI system 302 could generate RNG calls to a game processing backend system 314. As an example, the UI system 302 could use one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) to generate the RNG calls. To process the RNG calls, the RNG engine 316 could utilize gaming RNG 318 and/or non-gaming RNGs 319A-319N. Gaming RNG 318 could correspond to RNG 212 or hardware RNG 244 shown in FIG. 2A. As previously discussed with reference to FIG. 2A, gaming RNG 318 often perform specialized and non-generic operations that comply with regulatory and/or game requirements. For example, because of regulation requirements, gaming RNG 318 could correspond to RNG 212 by being a cryptographic RNG or pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) (e.g., Fortuna PRNG) that securely produces random numbers for one or more game features. To securely generate random numbers, gaming RNG 318 could collect random data from various sources of entropy, such as from an operating system (OS) and/or a hardware RNG (e.g., hardware RNG 244 shown in FIG. 2A). Alternatively, non-gaming RNGs 319A-319N may not be cryptographically secure and/or be computationally less expensive. Non-gaming RNGs 319A-319N can thus be used to generate outcomes for non-gaming purposes. As an example, non-gaming RNGs 319A-319N can generate random numbers for generating random messages that appear on the gaming device.
The RNG conversion engine 320 processes each RNG outcome from RNG engine 316 and converts the RNG outcome to a UI outcome that is feedback to the UI system 302. With reference to FIG. 2A, RNG conversion engine 320 corresponds to RNG conversion engine 210 used for game play. As previously described, RNG conversion engine 320 translates the RNG outcome from the RNG 212 to a game outcome presented to a player. RNG conversion engine 320 utilizes one or more lookup tables 322A-322N to regulate a prize payout amount for each RNG outcome and how often the gaming device pays out the derived prize payout amounts. In one example, the RNG conversion engine 320 could utilize one lookup table to map the RNG outcome to a game outcome displayed to a player and a second lookup table as a pay table for determining the prize payout amount for each game outcome. In this example, the mapping between the RNG outcome and the game outcome controls the frequency in hitting certain prize payout amounts. Different lookup tables could be utilized depending on the different game modes, for example, a base game versus a bonus game.
After generating the UI outcome, the game processing backend system 314 sends the UI outcome to the UI system 302. Examples of UI outcomes are symbols to display on a video reel or reel stops for a mechanical reel. In one example, if the UI outcome is for a base game, the UI system 302 updates one or more game play UI elements 306A-306N, such as symbols, for the game play UI 304. In another example, if the UI outcome is for a bonus game, the UI system could update one or more bonus game play UI elements 310A-310N (e.g., symbols) for the bonus game play UI 308. In response to updating the appropriate UI, the player may subsequently provide additional player inputs to initiate a subsequent game instance that progresses through the game processing pipeline.
The example game processing architecture 300 shown in FIG. 3 can be used to process game play instructions and generate outcomes as follows. In some example implementations, the game processing architecture 300 implements a game processing pipeline for a process (e.g. base reel game, bonus reel game, feature reel game, etc.) that converts stacked reels that could contribute to a “win combination” to a single symbol spanning the reel and selects a multiplier based on the number of preceding stacked reels, merge assigned multipliers of adjacent reels, or the like. The UI system 302 (e.g., the game play UI 304 or bonus game play UI 308 of the UI system 302) causes the display system (e.g. display 240, 242) to display a single symbol in place of a stacked reel and a multiplier assigned based on the number of preceding stacked reels, a merged multiplier representing the product of assigned multipliers of adjacent reels, or the like. For a play, the UI system 302 (e.g., the game play UI 304 or bonus game play UI 308) makes one or more RNG calls to the game processing backend system 314. In response, the backend system 314 performs various operations. For example, using a gaming RNG 318, the RNG engine 316 generates one or more random numbers, which are passed to the RNG conversion engine 320. In various embodiments, the RNG conversion engine 320 can use one or more of the random number(s) and one or more of the lookup tables 322A . . . 322N to determine a set of display symbols to populate the reels, to select a selected special symbol to substitute for dynamic symbols, or the like. After determining a game outcome, including combining the product of assigned multipliers of stacked reels that are part of a “win combination” (e.g. a pay line etc.), or the like, the backend system 314 performs a pay evaluation or otherwise determines results (e.g., calculating whether any win conditions exist). The backend system 314 returns generated results to the game play UI 304 or bonus game play UI 308 of the UI system 302, which can, among other operations, control display of the game outcome and results corresponding to the pay evaluation. For example, the game play UI 304 or bonus game play UI 308 in various embodiments may stop the spinning of reels at the display symbols determined for respective reel outcomes, replace stacked reels (fully populated with special symbols) with a single symbol and a multiplier assigned based on the number of preceding stacked reels, merge assigned multipliers for adjacent stacked reels to display a single multiplier that is the product of the assigned multipliers, indicate win paths, or the like.
In general, the generated results returned by the backend system 314 can include game-related information (such as display symbols for the respective reels, outcomes) as well as animation effects not related to game parameters. Alternatively, the game play UI 304 (or bonus game play UI 308) can make one or more separate RNG calls to the backend system 314 to determine animation effects. In response, the backend system 314 can use the gaming RNG 318 and/or one or more of the non-gaming RNGs 319A . . . 319N to generate random numbers, which the RNG conversion engine 320 uses (with one or more of the lookup tables 322A . . . 322N) to determine animation effects. The game play UI 304 (or bonus game play UI 308) can perform operations consistent with the animation effects, which are returned from the backend system 314.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are flowcharts illustrating an example technique 400 for randomly assigned multiplier values based on random game outcomes, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The technique 400, for example, may be presented on gaming device 200 of FIG. 2 using the processing architecture 300 of FIG. 3 . Prior to the start of method 400, the gaming device 200 may begin game play. For example, the gaming device 200 may establish an associated credit value on a credit meter. For example, a player may insert a physical item having monetary value into a credit input mechanism or device, such as the ticket reader 224 or bill validator 234 of the gaming device 200 or otherwise establish a credit value. In response to the received physical item, the gaming device 200 may increase a credit value based on the monetary value of the physical item. The credit value is displayed on a display of the gaming device 200, such as the primary game display 240, secondary game display 242, or other display and an increase in the credit value may be shown on the display, for example by displaying an animation, highlighting, scrolling the credit value up, etc. The gaming device 200 may then receive a wager. A player may use input buttons 236 to specify a value of an amount to be wagered with the wager being funded by the credit value of the credit meter. The gaming device 200 may display a message such as “Press SPIN to play” on the primary game display 240 or otherwise. When the player presses a corresponding SPIN button, for example via the player input buttons 236, the gaming device 200 may decrease the player's credit balance by the specified wager and initiate play of a slot-type game. The technique 400 may be part of a base game, a secondary game, and/or a bonus game.
At step 402, the game controller 202 controls the display system to display a final outcome for reels of the reel grid. In some cases, outcomes for the reels may be displayed one reel at a time, and the final outcome may be displayed when all of the reels have landed and outcomes are displayed for all of the reels. The outcome of the reels includes the display symbols that land on the reels. The set of display symbols may be randomly selected from reel strips, which may include at least one special symbol (i.e., a symbol which can contribute to a “win combination” during a pay evaluation, such as a predetermined multiplier, wild, extra wild, etc.). The special symbol can be any symbol, picture, image, number, letter, a combination of these, or the like. In some cases, certain special symbols may not be on the reel strips of each reel. As an example, wild and extra wild symbols may not be included on the outermost reel strips. Thus, where there are five reels displayed, the wild and extra wild symbols may only appear on the inner three reels. In some cases, steps 404-422 may only be performed for those reels where the extra wild symbols may be included, and outcomes for those reels which do not include the extra wild symbols may be determined in accordance with any other technique employed by the game to determine reel outcomes.
At step 404, if there are extra wild special symbols displayed for a reel, the technique may proceed to step 406, where the extra wild feature is enabled for the reel and an indication that the extra wild feature is enabled for the reel is displayed. For example, if the outcome from step 402 includes an extra wild symbol for a reel, then the extra wild feature is enabled for that reel. If the extra wild symbol lands for multiple reels (e.g., the outcome from step 402 includes the extra wild symbol for multiple reels), then the extra wild feature may be enabled for those reels where the extra wild symbols landed. As a more specific example, in a 4×5 (row-by-column) reel grid, any single vertical reel that includes a special symbol for the extra wild feature will enable the feature for that reel. Thus, if the final outcome of a previous spin includes extra wild symbols on reels 2 and 3 (where reels are numbered 1 to 5 from left to right), then the extra wild feature is enabled for reels 2 and 3. When the extra wild feature is enabled for a reel for a spin, the reel may be randomly selected to be replaced by a multiplier.
In some cases, an animation effect indicating that the extra wild feature is enabled for a reel may be displayed. This animation effect may help a player understand that the extra wild feature is enabled and that the reel may be replaced. This animation effect may be displayed for each reel the extra wild feature is newly enabled for (e.g., reels in which the extra wild feature was not already enabled for). In some cases, if the extra wild feature is newly enabled for more than one reel, a different and/or additional animation effect may be displayed as compared to when the extra wild feature is newly enabled for a single reel. The animation effects may appear to place one or more extra wild indicators which indicate which reels the extra wild feature is enabled for. The extra wild indicators may be placed adjacent to the reels the extra wild feature is enabled for. As an example, the extra wild indicators may be placed above the reels that the extra wild feature is enabled for. Returning to the example discussed above, where extra wild feature is enabled for reels 2 and 3, an animation effect may be displayed for each of reels 2 and 3 (or, alternatively, a single animation effect can be displayed for the reels) and extra wild indicators placed above reels 2 and 3. The game controller 202 may control the display system to display the animation effects.
In some cases, once the extra wild feature is enabled for a given reel, the extra wild feature remains enabled for the duration the extra wild feature is available for any of the reels. For example, where the extra wild feature is available for a certain amount of time, such as for five minutes, when the extra wild feature is enabled for a reel, such as one minute after the feature becomes available, the extra wild feature will remain enabled for a remaining duration of the amount of time, here four minutes. As another example, where the extra wild feature is available for the duration of a game session or in a special mode, when the extra wild feature is enabled for a reel, the extra wild feature will remain enabled for the duration of the game session or until the special mode ends. If, at step 404, no extra wild symbols are displayed on the reels, then the technique 400 proceeds to step 408.
At step 408, a next spin may begin. For example, the player may press a SPIN button or otherwise initiate game play. Prior to initiating game play, the player may, as described above, initiate an increase to the credit value, specify the value of an amount to wager, etc.
To determine whether to activate the extra wild feature, at step 410, if there is another reel in the set of reels that has not been evaluate for whether to activate the extra wild feature, the technique 400 proceeds to step 412. In some cases, the reels may be evaluated for whether to activate the extra wild feature one at a time, from left to right. If all of the reels have been evaluated for the extra wild feature, then outcomes for the reels which were not replaced by multiplier ladders are determined in accordance with any other technique employed by the game to determine reel outcomes, and these outcomes are displayed at step 402.
At step 412, if the reel has the extra wild feature enabled, then technique 400 proceeds to step 414. In some cases, an indication that the reel has the extra wild feature enabled will be displayed adjacent to the reel. If the extra wild feature is not enabled for the reel, the technique may proceed back to step 410 to evaluate another reel for the extra wild feature.
At step 414, a determination whether to activate the extra wild feature for the reel on which the extra wild feature is enabled is made. This determination may be made, for example, by the game controller 202. The determination whether to activate the extra wild feature is independent of a determination of a display symbol for the reel. For example, the game controller may make an RNG pull to randomly determine whether to activate the extra wild feature. This RNG pull may be separate from another RNG pull that may be used to determine a display symbol for the reel, for example, if the extra wild feature is not activated. When the extra wild feature is enabled for a reel, that reel is eligible to have the extra wild feature activated for each subsequent (e.g., next) spin. For the subsequent spins while the feature is enabled, the extra wild feature may be randomly activated for reels with the feature enabled. In the example discussed above where the extra wild feature is enabled for reels 2 and 3, a determination whether to activate the extra wild feature is made for reel 2, and a separate determination whether to active the extra wild feature is also made for reel 3.
In some cases, when the next spin begins, a lookup operation may be performed for each reel with the extra wild feature enabled to determine whether to activate the extra wild feature for that reel. This lookup operation may be performed, for example, by generating an RNG outcome and mapping the generated RNG outcome to a lookup table of values for the extra wild feature indicating whether to activate the extra wild feature. As discussed above, the lookup table for the extra wild feature may be configured/tuned, for example, to achieve a target level of RTP. In some cases, the lookup table may be selected from a set of lookup tables for the extra wild feature based on reel outcomes of one or more preceding reels. This lookup table may be defined for use in determining whether to activate the extra wild feature. As the lookup operation to determine whether to activate the extra wild feature for a reel is performed prior to determining an outcome (e.g., a reel stop) of the reel, the extra wild feature can be activated without randomly determining the outcome of the reel.
In some cases, the determination whether to activate the extra wild feature may be performed per reel with the extra wild feature enabled. This determination may be performed before spinning the reels or while the reels are spinning. The determination for the reels may be made in a certain order, such as from left to right. As an example of the latter, where the extra wild feature is enabled for reels 2 and 3, after the reels are spun, a first determination whether the extra wild feature is to be activated for reel 2 is made while the reels are all spinning. If the first determination is not to activate the extra wild feature for a reel, such as for reel 2, then the technique 400 proceeds back to step 410 to determine if there are additional reels with the extra wild feature enabled. In this example, reel 3 also has the extra wild feature enabled, and at step 412, the second determination whether the extra wild feature is to be activated for reel 3 is made. If the determination is that the extra wild feature is to be activated for the reel, such as reel 3, the technique 400 proceeds to step 416.
At step 416, the reel is replaced with a multiplier ladder. Replacement of the reel with the multiplier ladder is based on the determination to activate the extra wild feature on the reel. An animation effect may be displayed to help highlight the replacement of the reel strip with the multiplier ladder. In some cases, replacing the reel with a multiplier ladder may include displaying a set of potential multipliers in place of the reel being replaced. The multipliers may be displayed in order, for example, from the smallest multiplier at the bottom to the largest multiplier at the top. Continuing the above example, after the determination to activate the extra wild feature for reel 3, reel 3 may be replaced by a multiplier ladder with a set of potential multiplier values, for example, from 4× to 8×. In some cases, the potential multiplier values are displayed in sequentially increasing order. When the reel is replaced, the reel strip corresponding to the reel is removed and no symbol is selected as a display symbol for an outcome for the replaced reel. As the reel strip is removed for the replaced reel, no RNG pull is needed to determine a reel outcome (e.g., reel stop) and no spin occurs for the replaced reel. By removing the reel without placing an RNG pull to determine the reel outcome helps avoid possible regulatory issues from a mismatch between generated reel stops and the reels displayed. For example, by allowing the reel to continue to spin, regulations may require that a reel outcome be presented along with the multiplier ladder. This could create relatively large multiplier values and payouts, potentially overshooting a target RTP. Additionally, displaying both the multiplier ladder and the reel could present a UI spacing issue. Removing the reel without determining the reel outcome prevents the game from triggering certain symbols and features, thus reducing the RTP for the feature and the overall game. Removing the reel also simplifies the UI and makes the merging mechanic easier to understand for the user. The display is updated to remove the replaced reel from view, for example, by replacing the reel with the multiplier ladder. A multiplier value selected from the multiplier ladder may be presented instead of the reel outcome.
At step 418, a determination whether two or more multiplier ladders are adjacent is made. For example, if the extra wild feature is enabled for reels 2 and 3 and the extra wild feature then becomes active for both reels 2 and 3 and the reels are both replaced by multiplier ladders, then the multiplier ladders are adjacent multiplier ladders. If there are no adjacent multiplier ladders, the technique advances to step 422. If there are adjacent multiplier ladders, the technique advances to step 420. In some cases, a reel may be replaced by a multiplier value if a special symbol, such as a wild symbol, lands on a reel. For example, if the extra wild feature is enabled for reel 2 and the extra wild feature then becomes active for reel 2, reel 2 is replaced by a first multiplier ladder. Reel 3, adjacent to reel 2 and which does not have the extra wild feature enabled, may be spun. A random reel outcome for reel 3 may be determined where the random reel outcome results in a wild symbol. Reel 3 may then be replaced by a second multiplier ladder based on the determined reel outcome. A determination that the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder are adjacent may then be made.
At step 420, adjacent multiplier ladders are merged. In merging the multiplier ladders, as multiplier values are determined separately for each multiplier ladder sequentially, a first multiplier ladder with a set of potential multiple values (e.g., a multiplier ladder not associated with a determined multiplier value) may be merged with one or more second multiplier ladder(s) having a determined multiplier value. In such cases, the potential multipliers of the first multiplier ladder may be multiplied with the determined multiplier value of the second multiplier ladder(s) and displayed for the merged multiplier ladder. The merged multiplier ladder may replace the first and second multiplier ladder(s). For example, where reels 2 and 3 have the extra wild feature enabled, the extra wild feature for reel 2 may be activated, reel 2 may be replaced by a second multiplier ladder including potential multiplier values from 4× to 8×, and a multiplier value of 4× may be determined for the second multiplier ladder. The extra wild feature may then be activated on reel 3 and reel 3 may be replaced by a first multiplier ladder. The first multiplier ladder may also have potential multiplier values from 4× to 8×, but as the first multiplier ladder is adjacent to the second multiplier ladder, the potential multiplier values may be multiplied by the determined multiplier value of the second multiplier ladder, here 4×. Thus, a merged multiplier ladder (e.g., third multiplier ladder) may display potential multiplier values of 16× to 32×. This merged multiplier ladder replaces the first multiplier ladder and second multiplier ladder. Animations may be displayed representing that multiple multiplier ladders are adjacent, that potential multiplier values for the third multiplier ladder are being multiplied by the determined multiplier value, and that the third multiplier ladder, having the potential multiplier values which were multiplied by the determined multiplier value, replaces the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder.
In some cases, an animation effect may be displayed to help highlight the merging of the adjacent multiplier ladders. In some cases, the animation may highlight the adjustment of the potential multiplier values of the adjacent multiplier values. Continuing the above example, the potential multiplier values of reel 3 may be displayed and then the animation may show the potential multiplier values being multiplied by the determined multiplier value of reel 2.
At step 422, a multiplier value is determined for the multiplier ladder. For example, the game controller 202 may determine a multiplier value for the multiplier ladder. The multiplier value may be randomly selected from among the set of potential multiplier values. In some cases, the multiplier value may be determined based on a RNG pull and a lookup table. In some cases, the lookup table may be weighted to adjust probabilities of selecting different multiplier values. For example, lower multipliers may be more heavily weighted so that lower multiplies may be selected more frequently. In some cases, an animation effect may be displayed, for example, to draw attention to the determination of the multiplier value. For example, the animation effect may draw attention initially to the lowest multiplier value by highlighting the lowest multiplier value and then move the highlighting upwards if a higher multiplier value is selected. Moving the highlighting among the different multiplier values may help the player understand the random nature of the multiplier selection. In some cases, this movement of the highlighting between lowest multiplier value and a next higher multiplier value may take a certain amount of time, and further movement of the highlighting to larger multiplier values may take an increasingly longer amounts of time. In some cases, the amount of time for moving the highlighting may be based on either the multiplier value highlighted or the next higher multiplier value. This increasingly larger delay may help build user involvement and engagement in the multiplier value selection process. As the determination to activate the extra wild feature and replacement of the reel is performed prior to determining an outcome (e.g., a reel stop) of the reel, the determination of the multiplier value for a corresponding multiplier ladder also avoids generating an outcome of the reel.
After the selected multiplier value is determined, the determined multiplier value is displayed at step 424. The game controller may cause the determined multiplier to be displayed on screen. For example, an animation may be displayed enlarging, moving, enhancing the highlighting, or otherwise drawing attention to the determined multiplier value. This animation helps draw attention to the determined multiplier and helps enhance a user's understanding that a particular multiplier value was determined. The animation may also enhance user engagement with the determined multiplier.
The technique 400 returns to step 410 to determine if there are additional reels with the extra wild feature enabled. If there are no additional reels with the extra wild feature enabled, then the remaining reels stop, and the final outcome of the reels is displayed at step 402. If one or more multiplier values are determined, values corresponding to symbols of the set of display symbols in the final outcome of the reels are multiplied by the multiplier value(s) to generate a pay evaluation of a “win combination” which includes the product of the multiplier value(s).
FIG. 4C is a flowchart 450 illustrating operations for determining game outcomes, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some cases, the operations may be performed by a game processing backend system, such as game processing backend system 314 of FIG. 3 for presentation on a gaming device, such as gaming device 200 of FIG. 2 . At step 452, a request for an outcome for a reel is received. In some cases, the request for an outcome may indicate whether the extra wild feature is enabled for the corresponding reel. In some cases, the request for the outcome may be received while the UI elements, such as the game play UI elements 306A-306N or bonus game play UI elements 310A-310N, are displaying the reels as spinning. However, as no RNG pull corresponding to the reel outcome has been performed, the reel may not yet be considered spun. At block 454, if the extra wild feature is enabled for the reel, at block 456, a RNG pull to determine whether to activate the extra wild feature is performed. If the extra filed feature is activated at block 458, execution proceeds to block 460 where an RNG pull is made to determine a multiplier value for the multiplier ladder. At block 462, the multiplier value is returned without an RNG pull being performed to determine the outcome of the reel. The UI elements may then stop the reel and replace the reel with the multiplier ladder. The UI elements may also animate the multiplier ladder display to illustrate selection of the multiplier value on the multiplier ladder, for example, by highlighting the lowest rung, and corresponding lowest value for a certain amount of time, and then moving the highlighting up the ladder to higher rungs and higher values. The amount of time a particular multiplier value on the multiplier ladder is highlighted before the highlighting is moved up (or selection of the multiplier value is indicated) may increase the higher up the multiplier ladder.
If, at block 454, the extra wild feature is not enabled for the reel, or if, at block 458, the extra wild feature is not activated for the reel, execution proceeds to block 464. At block 464, an RNG call to determine an outcome for the reel is performed. As the extra wild feature is either not enabled or activated for the reel, determining the outcome for the reel is performed in a manner consistent with the regular technique(s) employed by the game to determine reel outcomes. Once this RNG pull to determine the outcome for the reel is performed, the reel may be considered spun. At block 466, the outcome of the reel is returned to the UI elements for display.
FIGS. 5A and 5B are example screen displays illustrating special symbols, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Example screen display 500 has a 4×5 reel grid 502 which includes five reels 504, 506, 508, 510, and 512 and four rows 514, 516, 518, and 520. Displayed in the reel grid 502 is a final outcome for a spin. In this example, the reels 506, 508, and 510 include extra wild special symbols. Extra wild special symbols 522 landed in the previous spin and are included in the final outcome for reels 506, 508, and 510. In some cases, the extra wild symbols may not be the only special symbols and other special symbols 524 may land and these other special symbols may be utilized for other features and techniques outside of the scope of this disclosure. As the extra wild symbols landed in these reels, the extra wild feature may be enabled for reels 506, 508, and 510 starting in the next spin. As shown in FIG. 5B, extra wild indicators 526 may be placed adjacent to the reels that have the extra wild feature enabled. In this example, the extra wild indicators 526 are placed above the respective reels. In some cases, an animation effect may appear to place the extra wild indicators 526.
FIG. 6 is an example screen display 600 illustrating activation of the extra wild feature, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, reels 504, 508, 510, and 512 are spinning. After a subsequent spin is initiated for a game, the extra wild feature may be randomly enabled for a reel. In this example, the extra wild feature has been activated for the second reel from the left, and the second reel has been replaced by multiplier ladder 602. The multiplier ladder 602 includes potential multiplier values, here from ×4 to ×8, and the ×4 multiplier value is highlighted 604. This highlighting 604 may be moved upwards based on the multiplier value selected from the multiplier ladder 602. Additionally, the extra wild indicator 606 includes an indication that the extra wild feature has been activated for the second reel. Extra wild indicators 608 and 610 do not include this indication that the extra wild feature has been activated, as the extra wild feature has not been activated for those reels. In some cases, animation effects replacing the second reel with the multiplier ladder 602 and/or updating and/or adding the indication to the extra wild indicator 606 may be shown.
FIG. 7A is an example screen display 700 illustrating multiplier ladder merging, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The example screen display 700 extends the game as shown in FIG. 6 . As shown, reels 504, 510, and 512 are spinning. As discussed in conjunction with FIG. 6 , the extra wild feature was previously activated for the second reel from the left. In this example, the extra wild feature has also been activated for the third reel from the left. As the extra wild feature has been activated, multiple adjacent multiplier ladders replace the second and third reels. These adjacent multiplier ladders may be merged into a single merged multiplier ladder 702. Assuming the ×7 multiplier value in FIG. 6 is the selected multiplier value, the merged multiplier ladder 702 may display a set of potential multiplier values where an original set of potential multiplier values (e.g., ×4, ×5, ×6, ×7, and ×8) have been multiplied by 7—here ×28, ×35, ×42, ×49, and ×56. In this example, extra wild indicators above the merged multiplier ladder 702 have been replaced by the merged multiplier ladder 702. In some cases, the extra wild indicators may be replaced with a merged extra wild indicator (not shown), which may indicate that the extra wild feature has been activated for multiple multiplier ladders and/or that multiple multiplier ladders have been merged. The extra wild indication 610, in this example, remains displayed for the fourth reel 510 from the left, indicating that the extra wild feature is enabled but not activated for the fourth reel 510. In some cases, the merged multiplier ladder 702 may visually extend beyond the boundaries of the merged reels. For example, the merged multiplier ladder 702 may appear taller than the other reels.
FIG. 7B is an example screen display 750 illustrating multiplier ladder merging, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Screen display 750 extends the multiplier ladder merging as shown in FIG. 7A and illustrates an example where three multiplier ladders are merged into a single multiplier ladder 752. In this example, the extra wild feature has been activated for the second, third, and fourth reels from the left, and multiplier ladders corresponding with the three reels were merged into the single multiplier ladder 752. Assuming the ×7 multiplier value in FIG. 6 is the selected and the ×28 multiplier value highlighted 706 in FIG. 7A were previously selected, the original set of potential multiplier values (e.g., 4×, 5×, 6×, 7×, and 8×), from the multiplier ladder replacing the fourth reel, are multiplied by 28 to obtain a set of potential multiplier valuers for the merged multiplier ladder 752, here ×112, ×140, ×168, ×196, and ×224. In this example, the extra wild indicators have been replaced by an extended merged multiplier ladder 752 which visually extends beyond the boundaries of the merged reels and appears taller than the other reels.
While various examples use specific multipliers, specific sequences, etc., any multiplier or sequence may be used. Further, other examples may use different symbols, fonts, reel matrix sizes, display features, a combination of these, or the like.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A gaming system comprising:

a display system; and

a game controller comprising one or more processors, the game controller executing instructions which cause the game controller to:

based on a determination that an extra wild feature is enabled for a first reel of a plurality of reels, randomly determine whether to activate an extra wild feature for the first reel;

activate the extra wild feature for the first reel in response to the determination without randomly determining an outcome for the first reel;

based on the activation of the extra wild feature for the first reel, cause the display system to replace the first reel with a first multiplier ladder;

determine a multiplier value for the first multiplier ladder; and

cause the display system to display the determined multiplier value.

2. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to:

replace a second reel of the plurality of reels with a second multiplier ladder;

determine that the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder are adjacent;

determine multiplier values for a third multiplier ladder based on the determined multiplier value of the first multiplier ladder; and

based on the determination that the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder are adjacent, cause the display system to display the first multiplier ladder and second multiplier ladder merging into the third multiplier ladder.

3. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to control the display system to display the third multiplier ladder over the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder.

4. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to:

randomly determine a reel outcome for the second reel, wherein the randomly determined reel outcome is a special symbol; and

replace the second reel with the second multiplier ladder based on the special symbol.

5. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the multiplier values for the third multiplier ladder are determined by multiplying the determined multiplier value of the first multiplier ladder and multiplier values of a set of initial multiplier values of the second multiplier ladder.

6. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to:

replace a third reel, of the plurality of reels, with a fourth multiplier ladder;

determine that the third multiplier ladder and fourth multiplier ladder are adjacent;

determine multiplier values for a fifth multiplier ladder based on the determined multiplier value of the third multiplier ladder and a set of initial multiplier values of the fourth multiplier ladder; and

based on the determination that the third multiplier ladder and the fourth multiplier ladder are adjacent, cause the display system to display the third multiplier ladder and fourth multiplier ladder merging into the fifth multiplier ladder.

7. The gaming system of claim 6, wherein the game controller further executed instructions which cause the game controller to display the fifth multiplier ladder over the third multiplier ladder and the fourth multiplier ladder.

8. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to:

randomly determine a reel outcome for the first reel, wherein the randomly determined reel outcome is an extra wild symbol; and

enable the extra wild feature for the first reel based on the extra wild symbol.

9. The gaming system of claim 8, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to cause the display system to display an indication that the extra wild feature is enabled for the first reel.

10. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the game controller further executes instructions which cause the game controller to cause the display system to display an indication that the extra wild feature is activated for the first reel.

11. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the game controller randomly activates the extra wild feature by executing code which cause the game controller to:

select a lookup table associated with the extra wild feature; and

randomly select, using a random number generator and the selected lookup table, whether to activate the extra wild feature.

10. A method, comprising:

determining that an extra wild feature is enabled for a first reel of a plurality of reels;

based on the determination that the extra wild feature is enabled, randomly determining, using a random number generator, whether to activate an extra wild feature for the first reel;

activating the extra wild feature for the first reel in response to the determination,

based on the activation of the extra wild feature for the first reel,

determining a multiplier value for the first multiplier ladder and avoid generating an outcome on the first reel using the random number generator; and

causing the determined multiplier value to be displayed.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising:

replacing a second reel of the plurality of reels with a second multiplier ladder;

determining that the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder are adjacent;

determining multiplier values for a third multiplier ladder based on the determined multiplier value of the first multiplier ladder; and

based on the determination that the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder are adjacent, merging the first multiplier ladder and second multiplier ladder into the third multiplier ladder.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:

randomly determining a reel outcome for the second reel, wherein the randomly determined reel outcome is a special symbol; and

replacing the second reel with the second multiplier ladder based on the special symbol.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising:

replacing a third reel, of the plurality of reels, with a fourth multiplier ladder;

determining that the third multiplier ladder and fourth multiplier ladder are adjacent;

determining multiplier values for a fifth multiplier ladder based on the determined multiplier value of the third multiplier ladder and a set of initial multiplier values of the fourth multiplier ladder; and

based on the determination that the third multiplier ladder and the fourth multiplier ladder are adjacent, merging the third multiplier ladder and fourth multiplier ladder into the fifth multiplier ladder.

14. The method of claim 10, further comprising:

randomly determining a reel outcome for the first reel, wherein the randomly determined reel outcome is an extra wild symbol; and

enabling the extra wild feature for the first reel based on the extra wild symbol.

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising:

selecting a lookup table associated with the extra wild feature, and

randomly selecting, using a random number generator and the selected lookup table, whether to activate the extra wild feature.

16. One or more machine-readable devices storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:

determine that an extra wild feature is enabled for a first reel of a plurality of reels;

activate the extra wild feature for the first reel in response to the determination without randomly determining a reel stop for the first reel;

based on the activation of the extra wild feature for the first reel, cause an animation replacing the first reel with a first multiplier ladder to be displayed;

determine a multiplier value for the first multiplier ladder; and

cause the determined multiplier value to be displayed.

17. The one or more machine-readable devices of claim 16, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the one or more processors to:

determine that the first multiplier ladder and second multiplier ladder are adjacent;

based on the determination that the first multiplier ladder and the second multiplier ladder are adjacent, merge the first multiplier ladder and second multiplier ladder into the third multiplier ladder.

18. The one or more machine-readable devices of claim 16, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the one or more processors to:

19. The one or more machine-readable devices of claim 16, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the one or more processors to:

based on the determination that the third multiplier ladder and the fourth multiplier ladder are adjacent, merge the third multiplier ladder and fourth multiplier ladder into the fifth multiplier ladder.

20. The one or more machine-readable devices of claim 16, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the one or more processors to: