WO2008054758A2

WO2008054758A2 - Method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool in response to a change in mode

Info

Publication number: WO2008054758A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/022956
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jeffrey George; Edward Sepich; Thomas E. Soukup; Stephen Sutherland
Original assignee: Konami Gaming, Inc.
Priority date: 2006-10-31
Filing date: 2007-10-31
Publication date: 2008-05-08
Also published as: WO2008054685A2; WO2008054758B1; WO2008054723A3; WO2008054758A3; WO2008054681A2; WO2008054681A3; WO2008054723A2; WO2008054685A3

Abstract

A method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool is provided. The system includes a host computer and a plurality of gaming machines playable by a plurality of players, connected to the host computer. Each gaming machine is playable in first and second modes selectable by the player and allows the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes. The advanced incentive jackpot pool is associated with the plurality of gaming machines. The host computer opens a data session on the host computer and records information in the data session on the host computer related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session.

Description

METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING AN ADVANCED INCENTIVE JACKPOT

POOL IN RESPONSE TO A CHANGE IN MODE CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS FROM WHICH PRIORITY IS

CLAIMED

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/863,639, filed on October 31, 2006 (Attorney Docket No. 060518.00640), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to gaming machines, and more particularly, to a system and method for accumulating one or more progressive incentive pools and for awarding prizes or jackpots to one or more users from the pool(s).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The growth and competition in the casino gaming market in recent years and the increasingly sophisticated and complex technology being integrated into the gaming environment, at the individual game, casino management, and auditing levels, presents both challenges and opportunities to game manufacturers, gaming establishment operators, and regulatory agencies. The technological capabilities and requirements of, for example, advanced electronic games, multi-site gaming operations, detailed player tracking, wide area progressive jackpots, and various alternatives to the use of currency and coins by players, all present a potentially huge pool of ever-changing data which can be of great value to casino operators (from a management standpoint) and to regulators from an audit/compliance stand point.

H&H: 060518-00826 [0004] One area that has received a lot of attention in recent years has been providing added incentives to players of electronic gaming machines, such as mechanical reel, video slot machines and video poker machines. One type of incentive is given through a progressive jackpot pool. The progressive jackpot pool is a constantly accumulating award based on coin or credit-in, i.e., the tokens played by players, on a plurality of predetermined gaming machines. The progressive jackpot pool typically starts at a predetermined minimal value that continuously increases with user activity until some randomly chosen triggering event occurs. The progressive jackpot award is awarded to the player under some predetermined conditions, usually the prior art include a randomly established maximum value as the trigger event. One such system which provides a progressive jackpot gaming system is disclosed in US Patent 6,110,043 which issued on August 29, 2000 and is assigned to Mikohn Gaming Corporation.

[0005] Typically, progressive jackpot systems utilize fixed add-on controllers which operate independent of the host player tracking system. For example, when a casino wants to set up a progressive jackpot system, the progressive controller-based system is limited to a specific game specific type of game or logical bank of games. A separate progressive controller must be installed for each game to be connected to the progressive jackpot system. One of the problems associated with this type of system is that each of the games, such as a slot machine, must be physically connected to the progressive controller be part of a progressive jackpot. Furthermore, the configuration, i.e., the gaming machines included in the progressive system are fixed and not easily changed. And finally, other casino revenue sources such as tables, bingo, sports book, internet gaming, retail, hotel, services and so once cannot be part of a progressive jackpot.

[0006] Previously, progressive jackpot system pay a progressive jackpot award from a pool. Contributions to the pool are made in response to each credit wagers made by the players. The contributions are, typically, deducted from the wagers. One problem with such a system deducting a portion of the wagers made to the gaming machine increases the complexity of the casino's accounting and reporting. For example, the coin-in and payout for each machine must be recorded and, generally, reported to a governmental jurisdictional body, to ensure that the gaming machine meets the jurisdiction's specifications. Removing a portion of the wager to place in the pool, and then paying it out in a progressive jackpot award, greatly increases the complexity in meeting these requirements. [0007] However, the prior art progressive jackpot systems are inflexible and do not provide the casino operator with the maximum benefit and advantages available from the information and systems now available. The present invention is aimed at providing an advanced incentive progressive jackpot system that accumulates one or more jackpot or incentive pool(s) based on the ever-changing data gathered by the casino operators. Moreover, the present invention broadens the traditional scope of the progressive jackpot system to incorporate all slot machines and other casino revenue sources by eliminating the need for a physical connection to a physical jackpot controller to be part of the progressive jackpot. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In a first aspect of the present invention, a method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool is provided. The method includes the step of providing a plurality of gaming machines playable by a plurality of players. Each gaming machine is playable in first and second modes selectable by the player. The advanced incentive jackpot pool being is with the plurality of gaming machines. The method includes the steps of opening a data session on the host computer in response to a first input by one of the players on a selected one of the gaming machines, allowing the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes, and recording information, in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session. The method further includes the steps of closing the data session in response to the player choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes and responsively (1) establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and (2) awarding at least a portion of the advanced incentive jackpot pool to a winning one of the players in response to an occurrence of predetermined advanced incentive jackpot conditions. [0009] In a second aspect the present invention, a method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool. The method including the step of providing a plurality of gaming machines playable by a plurality of players. Each gaming machine is playable in first and second modes selectable by the player. The advanced incentive jackpot pool is associated with the plurality of gaming machines. The method includes the steps of opening a data session on the host computer in response to a first input by one of the players on a selected one of the gaming machines, allowing the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes, detecting an occurrence of update data session criteria and responsively (1) recording information, in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session and (2) establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool. The further includes the steps of closing the data session in response to the player choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes, the step of closing the data session including (1) recording information, in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session and (2) establishing a second incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool.

[0010] In a third aspect of the present invention, a system for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool. The system includes a host computer and a plurality of gaming machines. The plurality of gaming machines are playable by a plurality of players and are operatively connected to the host computer. Each gaming machine is playable in first and second modes selectable by the player. The advanced incentive jackpot pool is associated with the plurality of gaming machines. The host computer for opening a data session on the host computer in response to a first input by one of the players on a selected one of the gaming machines. Each gaming machine allows the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes. The host computer records information in the data session on the host computer related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session and closes the data session in response to the player choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes and responsively (1) establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and (2) awarding at least a portion of the advanced incentive jackpot pool to a winning one of the players in response to an occurrence of predetermined advanced incentive jackpot conditions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein: [0012] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a progressive jackpot system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0013] Figure Ia is a block diagram of a multi-site system for providing a progressive jackpot pool, according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a gaming machine of the system; [0015] Figure 3 is a flow diagram of a method for accumulating a progressive jackpot pool according to an embodiment of the present invention; and, [0016] Figure 4 is a flow diagram of a method for accumulating a progressive jackpot pool according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0017] The present invention is a system 10 and a method for establishing one or more advanced incentive or bonus pool (s). Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, the system is generally shown at 10 in Figure 1. The system 10 includes one or more gaming machines 12 and a host computer 14 in communication via a network 16 with each gaming machine 12. [0018] In one aspect of the present invention, the system 10 is part of a player tracking system. In the player tracking system 10, the user 18, such as a player or other patron is identified via a player tracking card and/or a player identification number entered into a player tracking device (not shown) at each EGM 12. Player tracking accounts may be used, generally, to provide bonuses to a user, in addition to the award designated by, in the case of a video slot or poker machine, the EGM's 12 paytable. These bonuses may be awarded to the user 18 based a set of criteria, including, but not limited to, a) the user's play on the machine 12, b) the user's overall play, c) play during a predetermined period of time, and d) the user's birthday or anniversary, or e) any other definable criteria. Additionally, bonuses may be awarded on a random basis, i.e., to a randomly chosen user or randomly chosen game 12. Bonuses may also be awarded in a discretionary manner or based on other criteria, such as, purchases made at a gift shop or other affiliated location. In one aspect, the bonuses may be in the form of bonus points or advanced incentive points which may be exchanged for goods and/or services or downloaded to a gaming machine 12 for use and/or play. Downloaded bonus points may be cashable or non-cashable. [0019] In one aspect of the present invention, the advanced incentive pool is used to fund an advanced incentive jackpot which is awarded to one or more users under a set of predetermined rules. For example, an advanced incentive jackpot may be awarded to a user whose contribution to the advanced incentive pool results in the pool reaching or surpassing a predetermined value. In another example, an advanced incentive jackpot game may be initialized under a set of predetermined rules. An advanced incentive jackpot may be paid from the advanced incentive pool to one or more winners of the advanced incentive jackpot game. Contributions may also be made to one or more hidden pools, which may be used to initial or seed the advanced incentive pool, when the advanced incentive is begun or after an advanced incentive jackpot has been awarded. One system for awarding an advanced incentive jackpot is disclosed in commonly assigned US Patent Application Serial No. 11/779,537, filed on July 18, 2007 (Docket No. 060518-00648), which is hereby incorporated by reference in it entirety.

[0020] An advanced incentive jackpot may be a number of advanced incentive points (which may be designated as cashable or non-cashable) or may be for a specified good and/or service (which may have a value defined in terms of advanced incentive points). Gaming Machines

[0021] Gaming machines 12A- 121 include, but are not limited to, electronic gaming machines (EGM) (such as video slot, video poker machines, video arcade games or slot machines with mechanical reels), virtual gaming machines, e.g., for online gaming, an interface to a table management system for table games, online bingo, online keno, point of sale terminals, online hotel folios, kiosk devices or any other device connected to the system. In the illustrated embodiments, eight electronic gaming machines 12A-12H are shown in Figure 1. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to any number or type of gaming machines. In one embodiment, the gaming machines 12 are organized in banks, with each bank containing a plurality of gaming machines. Other types of gaming machines 12 which may be included are indicated with reference number 121. Other types of machines or other casino revenue sources, such as kiosks, point of sale devices, are designated 12 J.

[0022] Alternatively, the gaming machines 12 could be grouped by various dollar denominations or specific game designs or themes (not shown) as is well known in the art. For example, each gaming machine 12 may be playable using different denominations, e.g., a penny video slot machine game or a nickel video slot machine. In one embodiment, the denomination used or played is selectable by the casino. In another embodiment, the user may be given a choice of denominations. [0023] Additionally, a gaming machine 12 may be able to play different games or the same game with different themes, symbols, etc

[0024] The gaming machine 12 allows each user 18 to establish a first input on the gaming machine 12C. The first input is related to the user's usage of gaming machines 12. The first input could include the user logging into, playing and/or using the gaming machine 12 for other transactions. The other transactions could include, but are not limited to, playing the game, a table game, use of a point of sale terminal, kiosk transactions with the user's account or purchases. The first input is accomplished via mechanical switches, buttons, a touch screen interface, player input sensing device (not shown), etc. Such gaming machines 12 are well known in the art and are therefore not further discussed. The gaming machine 12C in response to the first input by the user 18 sends a signal to the host computer 14. [0025] The gaming machines 12 are playable by a plurality of users. Each user 18 selects one gaming machine 12C to play and insert cash, credit, coupon, player tracking card, etc. into the gaming machine 12C. Generally, the gaming machines 12 have an associated number of credits or coins required in order to play. In the case of video slot or poker games, the game is played and an award in the form of credits may be awarded to the user based on a pay table associated with the gaming machine. Referring to Figure 2, a block diagram of a suitable gaming machine 12C is shown. The gaming machine 12C comprises a game controller, or central processing unit 20 (CPU), a coin-bill management device 22, a display processor 24, a RAM 26 (generally provided as a memory device), and a ROM 28 (generally provided as an EPROM), and a player tracking device 30 (described in more detail below). The CPU 20 performs various calculations and motion control necessary for the progress of the game. The coin-bill management device 22 detects the insertion of the coins and/or the bills and performs a necessary process for managing the coins and the bills. The display processor 24 interprets commands issued from the CPU 20 and displays desirable images on a gaming display 32. The RAM 26 temporarily stores programs and data necessary for the progress of the game, and the ROM 28 stores, in advance, programs and data for controlling basic operation of the gaming machine 12C, such as the booting operation thereof, game code, and graphics. [0026] Host Computer [0027] The gaming machines 12 are connected via the network 16 to one or more host computers 14. The host computer 14 is generally located at a remote or central location, and is generally shown in Figure 1. The host computer 14 includes a computer program application 34 which maintains one or more databases 36, which in one embodiment, determines an incremental value as a function of a historical composite value, and accumulates an advanced incentive pool 38, and hidden pool 40. As shown in Figure Ia, the advanced incentive gaming system 10 could further include additional host computers 14. The host computers 14 in this embodiment are in communication via the network 16 to determine the advanced incentive pool 38 over multiple sites or casino properties. [0028) In one embodiment, the database(s) 36 of the advanced incentive system 10 are Oracle database(s). The computer program application 34 utilizes databases 36 to record, track, and report accounting information regarding the gaming machines 12 and the users. Additionally, the computer program application 34 and the databases 36 are used to maintain information related to the user 18 and the gaming machine 12C in communication with the host computer 14. The host computer 14 could incorporate a player or user tracking system or an additional player tracking system may be utilized to identify for the host computer 14 the user 18 at each gaming machine 12. The computer program application 34 logs the first inputs of the user 18 and various additional activities on the gaming machine 12 in a database 36 on the host computer 14.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the host computer 14 includes a user database 42 for each user 18 registered with the casino or gaming facility, also known as a carded player or user to those skilled in the art. In addition, the host computer 14 includes a machine database 44 for each gaming machine 12 in communication with the host computer 14. The host computer 14 through either communication with the gaming machine 12 and the user database 42 or optionally through the player tracking system identifies the user 18 at the gaming machine 12C. The computer program application 34 stores the identified user's first inputs as data in the user database 42. The user database 42 can further include additional data related to activity by the user 18 on the gaming machine 12. Such additional data may include, but not limited to, the user's usage on the gaming machine 12, the wagers, the amount won, the amount lost, and the purchases by the user 18. The flexibility of the system allows for the casino operator to configure the gathering of additional data and/or additional databases 36 to understand the activity of the user 18 in the gaming facility. [0030] The machine database 44 includes as data the first inputs for each gaming machine 12 in communication with the host computer 14. The machine database 44 may include as data the wagers placed at each gaming machine 12, the amount won or paid out to the user 18, the amount lost by the user 18 at the gaming machine 12, and the purchases placed at the gaming machine 12. The machine database 44 can further include as data such information about the user 18 that has established the first input into the gaming machine 12. In addition, the casino operator can configure the storing of additional parameters for determining or tracking the gaming activity at each gaming machine 12A- 121.

[0031] The computer program application 34 utilizes various parameters programmable or configurable by the casino or gaming facility to determine a contribution to the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 and/or the hidden pool 40.

[0032] Player Session Ratings [0033] In one aspect of the present invention, a contribution to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and/or the hidden pool is made when a session is updated with data and/or at the termination of a session. A session is a period during which a gaming machine 12 is being used by a user and during which information related to the user(s)' use of the gaming machine is recorded, e.g., wager, coin-in, and payout information. The recorded information may be used to determine whether a contribution to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and/or hidden pool is made, and if so, the value thereof.

[0034] In one aspect of the present invention, a session may be opened:

[0035] (a) when a user logs (or is logged) onto a gaming machine 12 and begins using the gaming machine 12 through play or use (such as through a purchase on a point of sale device or viewing of information on a kiosk or property management system or remote or Internet gaming systems associated with the casino),,

[0036] (b) while a user is logged in and after a closing of the previous session (see below),

[0037] (c) at the start of anonymous use of the gaming machine 12, and/or

[0038] (d) other predetermined criteria.

[0039] In another aspect of the present invention, a session may be updated:

[0040] (a) after a predetermined amount of use (based on time and/or amount wagered during the current session,

[0041] (b) when the user logs out,

[0042] (c) when a transaction is completed, e.g., at a point of sale terminal,

[0043] (d) other predetermined criteria. [0044] In one aspect of the present invention, the data session is updated when the data session is closed. In one aspect of the present invention, the data session is closed when the user changes modes, for example:

[0045] (a) at a gaming machine which offers different games and/or themes, when the user changes games and/or themes, and/or,

[0046] (b) at a gaming machine which offers the ability to play at different denominations, when the user changes denominations.

[0047] In another aspect, the data session may be closed:

[0048] (a) after a predetermined amount of use (e.g., based on time and/or amount wagered during the current session,

[0049] (b) when the user logs out,

[0050] (c) when a transaction is completed, e.g., at a point of sale terminal, and/or

[0051] (d) other predetermined criteria.

[0052] Typically, a contribution to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and/or hidden pool is made when the session is updated and/or at the close of each session. The value of the contributions, i.e., the first and second incremental values, may be determined as a function of the total amount of wagers or transactions in the session and/or a historical composite value and/or a theoretical win percentage. Typically, one or more of the following may be multiplied by predetermined percentage(s) in determining the value of the contribution and/or other values, such as the total number of wagers or purchases in the session.

[0053] Theoretical win or hold percentage [0054] The contribution to either pool may be determined as function of a predetermined theoretical win or hold percentage. In one aspect of the invention, each gaming machine 12 has a theoretical hold percentage. The theoretical hold percentage may be defined as the casino or establishment's estimated, average revenue percentage. For example, if the gaming machine 12 is a slot machine, the hold percentage is the expect house's estimate, average take or revenue for a particular machine. For a point of sale terminal, such as a cash register, the theoretical hold percentage may be set to an estimated profit percentage for the given cash register.

[0055] The contribution to either pool may therefore be determined by multiplying the theoretical hold percentage by one or more other values: including, but not limited to: [0056] (a) total value of wagers or purchases or transaction in the session and/or [0057] (b) total number of wagers or purchases or transaction in the session and/or [0058] (c) a predetermined or constant percentage and/or [0059] (d) a historical composite value (see below).

[0060] One system and method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool as a function of a theoretical hold percentage is disclosed in commonly assigned, US Patent Application Serial No. 11/066,064, filed on February 25, 2005 and titled, "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING A PROGRESSIVE JACKPOT AWARD", which is hereby incorporated by reference. [0061] Historical composite value [0062] In one aspect of the present invention, the contribution is determined as a function of a historical composite value to calculate a first incremental value and, optionally, one or more second incremental value(s). The host computer 14 and the computer program application 34 determine the first incremental value and optionally the second incremental value in response to each signal from the plurality of gaming machines 12 in communication with the host computer 14.

[0063] The parameters to determine the historical composite value could include various data gathered by the advanced incentive gaming system 10 and stored within the databases 36. The historical composite value is then multiplied by a percentage or other function to determine a first incremental value and optionally a second incremental value to be added to the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 and the hidden pool 40 respectively. [0064] In one aspect, the historical composite value could be established from a variety of the data stored in the user database 42 and/or the machine database 44. The historical composite value could be determined based on the data stored in the user database 42. The computer program application 34 can determine the historical composite value as data averaged over a period of time. The period of time is configurable by the casino operator to have the historical composite value equate to an average wager, an average amount won, and/or an average loss by the user identified at the gaming machine 12. The computer program application 34 uses the historical composite value to determine the first incremental value as a function, usually a percentage, of the historical composite value. The computer program application 34 determines the first incremental value each time the gaming machine 12 sends a signal indicating the first input by the user 18 on the gaming machine 12C. [0065] In a second aspect, the historical composite value could be established base on various data stored and gathered within the machine database 44 by the advanced incentive gaming system 10. The historical composite value can be data averaged over a period of time such as the wagers, amount won, amount lost or the house take from the gaming machine 12. The period of time is configurable by the casino operator to have the historical composite value equate to an average wager, an average amount won, and/or an average amount lost and/or an average house take from each gaming machine 12. The computer program application 34 uses the historical composite value to determine the first incremental value as a function, usually a percentage, of the historical composite value. The computer program application 34 determines the first incremental value each time the gaming machine 12 sends a signal indicating the first input by the user 18 on the gaming machine 12C. [0066] In one aspect of the present invention, the historical composite value does not include, or is not based on, the current (or last) wager or sets of wagers. In another aspect of the present invention, the historical composite value is only based on data from closed data sessions.

[0067] Alternatively, the historical composite value could be determined by various data stored in either the user or machine databases 42, 44. The historical composite value could be determined over a period of time to generally equate to the average take, average coins wagered, or any combination of the data stored in the user database 42 and the machine database 44. In addition, the historical composite value could be a configurable parameter in the computer program application 34 sampled over a period of time and include data specific to the user, the user database 42, and/or data specific to the gaming machine 12, the machine database 44 and alternatively any combination thereof. [0068] The contribution to either pool may therefore be determined by multiplying the historical composite value by one or more other values: including, but not limited to: [0069] (a) total value of wagers or purchases or transaction in the session and/or [0070] (b) total number of wagers or purchases or transaction in the session and/or [0071] (c) a predetermined or constant percentage and/or [0072] (d) the theoretical hold percentage (see above). [0073] Jackpots

[0074] In one aspect of the present invention, the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 is accumulated by the host computer 14. The host computer 14 continuously updates the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 by adding the first incremental value in response to the signal from the gaming machine 12.

[0075] With reference to Figure 3, a flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 3 shows a method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool. In a first step 46, a plurality of gaming machines 12 playable by a plurality of users is provided. In one aspect, each gaming machine 12 may be playable in first and second modes selectable by the user. The advanced incentive jackpot pool may be associated with the plurality of gaming machines 12. In a second step 48, a data session may be opened on the host computer 14 in response to a first input by one of the users on a selected one of the gaming machines. As discussed above, the input may be the act, by the user, of logging onto the selected one of the gaming machines. Or if the user's play is anonymous, by use of the machine by the user. [0076] In a third step 50, the user is allowed to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine 12 in the selected one of the first and second modes. As discussed above, the modes may be related to the user's choice of games on a multi-game gaming machine and/or a choice of denomination on a multi-denomination gaming machine and/or number of credits wagered. After the user's choice is made, the user may begin using or playing the gaming machine. In a first decision block 52, if predefined criteria requiring an update of the session are met (see above), then the method proceeds to a fourth step 54. Otherwise the method proceeds to the second decision block 58.

[0077] In a fourth step 54, information related to the user's play of the game, for example, wagers or wager information, is recorded on the host computer in the data session. In one aspect, the information recorded may be related to the user's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session (see above).

[0078] In a fifth step 56, an incremental value may be established as a function of the recorded information in the data session and added to an advanced incentive jackpot pool. In one embodiment, the step of establishing the incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session adding the first incremental value to an advanced incentive jackpot pool is performed each time wager information is updated in the data session. In one embodiment, the first incremental amount is established as a function of the updated wager information.

[0079] In the second decision block 58, if the user changes mode, e.g., by changing the game or denomination being played, then control proceeds to a sixth step 60. Otherwise, the method returns to the first decision block 52. [0080] In the sixth step 60, the data session may be closed in response to the user choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes and the data session is updated. For example, in a multi-game gaming machine 12, if the user changes games, the data session may be closed. Or if the gaming machine 12 may be played with different denominations, then if the user switches denominations, then the current data session may be closed. Or if the gaming machine 12 may ne placed with different credit wager amounts, i.e., may credit or a number of credits less than max credit, then if the user switches denominations, then the current data session may be closed. In one aspect of the present invention, a new data session may be automatically opened when the previous data session is closed (unless the data session is closed because the user has logged out or otherwise terminated play).

[0081] In a seventh step 62, an incremental value may be established as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to an advanced incentive jackpot pool. In one embodiment, the step of establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to an advanced incentive jackpot pool is performed each time wager information is updated in the data session. In one embodiment, the first incremental amount is established as a function of the updated wager information. [0082] In one embodiment the first incremental amount is a function of the updated wager information multiplied by a predetermined percentage. In another embodiment, the first incremental amount is a function of the updated wager information multiplied by a theoretical hold percentage associated with the selected one of the gaming machines. [0083] In one aspect of the present invention, the theoretical hold percentage is dependent upon the selected one of the first and second modes. For example, in a multi-game game, each game playable on the selected one of the gamine machines 12 may have a different theoretical hold. Thus, the incremental amount may be determined as a function of the theoretical hold of the game in the mode being played.

[0084] In a seventh step 58, at least a portion of the advanced incentive jackpot pool may be awarded to a progressive winning one of the users in response to an occurrence of predetermined progressive jackpot conditions.

[0085] Additionally, a current data session may be closed (and a new data session may be opened) in response to:

[0086] (a) passage of a predetermined amount of time;

[0087] (b) after the one of the users logs out;

[0088] (c) after a predetermined number of wagers in the data session; and,

[0089] (d) after a predetermined value of wagers in the data session and (e) other predetermined criteria.

[0090] With reference to Figure 4, in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in a first step 66, the advanced incentive jackpot system 10 allows the user 18 to establish a first input into the gaming machine 12C. As previously discussed, the first input may include, but not limited to, the user logging into, playing and/or using the gaming machine for other transactions. In a second step 64, the gaming machine 12C sends the signal in response to the first input by the user 18. The advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 is contributed to by the plurality of gaming machines 12 in communication via the network 16 with the host computer 14. There may be additional restrictions or qualifications that the user 18 must meet to win and/or contribute to the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38, i.e., maximum wager, identified user or some other configurable parameters or restrictions set by the casino operator.

[0091] In a third step 70, the host computer 14 determines the first incremental value upon each signal received from the plurality of gaming machines 12A- 121 indicating the first input by the user 18 on the gaming machine 12C. The first incremental value is determined as a function of the historical composite value. The function in the illustrated embodiment is a percentage of the historical composite value. However, the first incremental value could also be determined the function and configurable by the casino operator. In a fourth step 66, the first incremental value is responsively added into the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38. The advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 is continuously updated by the host computer 14 with each addition of the first incremental value as determined based on signals received from the plurality of gaming machines 12.

[0092] The computer program application 34 may include parameters to allow for the casino operator to set the function that determines the first incremental value and optionally a second incremental value. The function and second function used can be a percentage of the historical composite value, or any additional function configurable within the computer program application 34 by the casino operator.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the advanced incentive jackpot system 10 may include a hidden pool 40. The hidden pool 40 can be used to initially fund the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 to a minimum value after a triggering event. In addition, the hidden pool 40 could be used to fund secondary prizes. The secondary prizes may include compensation for entertainment ticket, credits at the casino, food and/or rooms comps as just a few examples of the potentially unlimited secondary prizes.

[0094] The hidden pool 40 is accumulated by the computer program application 34 determining a second incremental value as a second function of a historical composite value. The second function in the illustrated embodiment is usually a percentage and may be the same as the function to determine the first incremental value. However, the second function is configurable by the casino operator to satisfy the funds needed to maintain the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38. The host computer 14 determines the second incremental value upon each signal received from the plurality of gaming machines 12 indicating the first input by the user 18 on the gaming machine 12C. The second incremental value is responsively added into the hidden pool 40. The hidden pool 40 is continuously updated by the host computer 14 with each addition of the second incremental value. The hidden pool 40 can be configured by the casino operator establishing a maximum value for the hidden pool 40. The second incremental value is determined and added to the hidden pool 40 only when the hidden pool 40 is below the maximum value. The hidden pool 40 can be transferred into the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 after the awarding of the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 to establish a minimum value or initial value of the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38.

[0095] Awarding [0096] At least a portion of the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 is awarded to the user 18 in response to the occurrence of a trigger event. The host computer 14 determines if the trigger event has occurred. The host computer 14 awards the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 in response to the trigger event to the user 18 that satisfied or caused the trigger event. The trigger event could include a playing of an advanced incentive game and the winning of the advanced incentive game as the trigger event. Such advanced incentive games may include, but not limited to, a game of chance, a lottery, a lotto-type game, a random drawing, and a game of skill and/or strategy.

[0097] In another embodiment the trigger event could be defined as the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 being greater than or equal to a trigger value. The advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 is awarded to the user 18 that the first incremental value in response to that user's first input when added to the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 became greater than or equal to the trigger value. Typically in this instance the host computer 14 randomly establishes the trigger value and awards the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 when the advanced incentive jackpot pool 38 is greater than or equal to the trigger value. [0098] The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings, and the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

[0099) Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool, the method including the steps of: providing a plurality of gaming machines playable by a plurality of players, each gaming machine being playable in first and second modes selectable by the player, the advanced incentive jackpot pool being associated with the plurality of gaming machines; opening a data session on the host computer in response to a first input by one of the players on a selected one of the gaming machines; allowing the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes; recording information, in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session; and, closing the data session in response to the player choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes and responsively (1) establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and (2) awarding at least a portion of the advanced incentive jackpot pool to a winning one of the players in response to an occurrence of predetermined advanced incentive jackpot conditions.

2. A method, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the first input is an occurrence of the one of the players logging onto the selected one of the gaming machines, the method including the step of opening a new data session after the previous data session has been closed.

3. A method, as set forth in claim 2, wherein the information recorded in the data session includes wager(s) placed by the one of the players, the data session being updated with wager information in response to each wager being made.

4. A method, as set forth in claim 3, wherein the step of establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool is performed each time wager information is updated in the data session.

5. A method, as set forth in claim 4, wherein the first incremental amount is established as a function of the updated wager information.

6. A method, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the first incremental amount is a function of the updated wager information multiplied by a predetermined percentage.

7. A method, as set forth in claim 5, wherein the first incremental amount is a function of the updated wager information multiplied by a theoretical hold percentage associated with the selected one of the gaming machines.

8. A method, as set forth in claim 7, wherein theoretical hold percentage is dependent upon the selected one of the first and second modes.

9. A method, as set forth in claim 1, including the step of closing the data session in response to one of the following:

(a) passage of a predetermined amount of time;

(b) after the one of the players logs out;

(c) after a predetermined number of wagers in the data session; and,

(d) after a predetermined value of wagers in the data session.

10. A method, as set forth in claim 1, wherein the selected one of the gaming machines allows the player to play a game in first and second denominations, the player allowed to play the game in the first denomination in the first mode and in the second denomination in the second mode.

11. A method, as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the selected one of the gaming machines allows the player to play a first game and a second game, the player allowed to play the first game in the first mode and the second game in the second mode.

12. A method for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool, the method including the steps of: providing a plurality of gaming machines playable by a plurality of players, each gaming machine being playable in first and second modes selectable by the player, the advanced incentive jackpot pool being associated with the plurality of gaming machines; opening a data session on the host computer in response to a first input by one of the players on a selected one of the gaming machines; allowing the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes; detecting an occurrence of update data session criteria and responsively (1) recording information, in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session and (2) establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool; and, closing the data session in response to the player choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes, the step of closing the data session including (1) recording information, in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session and (2) establishing a second incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool.

13. A system for establishing an advanced incentive jackpot pool, comprising: a host computer; and, a plurality of gaming machines playable by a plurality of players and being operatively connected to the host computer, each gaming machine being playable in first and second modes selectable by the player, the advanced incentive jackpot pool being associated with the plurality of gaming machines, the host computer for opening a data session on the host computer in response to a first input by one of the players on a selected one of the gaming machines, each gaming machine for allowing the player to select one of the first and second modes and to play the gaming machine in the selected one of the first and second modes, the host computer for recording information in the data session on the host computer, related to the player's play of the selected one of the gaming machines during the data session, for closing the data session in response to the player choosing to play the game in the other of the first and second modes and responsive Iy (1) establishing a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adding the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool and (2) awarding at least a portion of the advanced incentive jackpot pool to a winning one of the players in response to an occurrence of predetermined advanced incentive jackpot conditions.

14. A system, as set forth in claim 3, wherein the first input is an occurrence of the one of the players logging onto the selected one of the gaming machines, the host computer for opening a new data session after the previous data session has been closed.

15. A system, as set forth in claim 14, wherein the information recorded in the data session includes wager(s) placed by the one of the players, the data session being updated with wager information in response to each wager being made.

16. A system, as set forth in claim 15, wherein the host computer establishes a first incremental value as a function of the recorded information in the data session and adds the first incremental value to the advanced incentive jackpot pool each time wager information is updated in the data session.

17. A system, as set forth in claim 16, wherein the first incremental amount is established as a function of the updated wager information.

18. A system, as set forth in claim 17, wherein the first incremental amount is a function of the updated wager information multiplied by a predetermined percentage.

19. A system, as set forth in claim 17, wherein the first incremental amount is a function of the updated wager information multiplied by a theoretical hold percentage associated with the selected one of the gaming machines.

20. A system, as set forth in claim 197, wherein theoretical hold percentage is dependent upon the selected one of the first and second modes.

21. A system, as set forth in claim 13, the host computer for closing the data session in response to one of the following:

(a) passage of a predetermined amount of time;

(b) after the one of the players logs out;

(c) after a predetermined number of wagers in the data session; and,

(d) after a predetermined value of wagers in the data session.

22. A system, as set forth in claim 13, wherein the selected one of the gaming machines allows the player to play a game in first and second denominations, the player allowed to play the game in the first denomination in the first mode and in the second denomination in the second mode.

23. A system, as set forth in claim 13, wherein the selected one of the gaming machines allows the player to play a first game and a second game, the player allowed to play the first game in the first mode and the second game in the second mode.