JP2019523670A - Game system and method with monetary and non-monetary prizes - Google Patents

Abstract

FIG. 5 is some embodiments of a gaming machine for awarding monetary and non-monetary prizes, the gaming machine being a display, a memory, and at least one input configured to receive user input from a player. A mechanism and a game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in the memory. The game controller presents at least one chance game on the display, determines a winning event for the at least one chance game, presents at least one skill game on the display, and Determine the game win event, determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize, and based on the skill game win event, whether the player should be awarded a monetary prize Is configured to determine if. [Selection] Figure 16

Description

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

  Reel style gaming machines allow players to place bets on symbols that appear on real or virtual reels that present a prize to the player based on the combination of symbols that appear. These games are attractive to players as a way to earn cash or credit. However, players tend to get bored and discouraged if they fail to win a prize, so keep a balance between the need to make gaming machines profitable and the need to generate player satisfaction. Can be difficult.

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

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

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

Some embodiments relate to a gaming machine for awarding monetary and non-monetary prizes, the gaming machine comprising:
Display,
Memory,
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
Present at least one chance game on the display;
Determining a winning event of the at least one chance game;
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Determining a winning event for the game of the at least one skill;
Determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize based on the winning event of the chance game;
In order to determine whether a player should be awarded a monetary prize based on the winning event of the skill game,
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in memory;
Is provided.

  In some embodiments, the game controller is configured to access at least one monetary paytable to determine whether the player should be awarded a monetary prize. According to some embodiments, the game controller compares the one or more symbols generated by the chance game with the at least one monetary paytable so that the player receives a monetary prize. Configured to determine whether to be awarded.

  In some embodiments, the game controller is configured to access at least one non-monetary pay table to determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize. According to some embodiments, the game controller compares the one or more symbols generated by the chance game with the at least one non-monetary paytable so that the player receives a non-monetary prize. Configured to determine whether or not to be awarded a scripture.

  In some embodiments, the non-monetary prize affects at least one aspect of the next skill game. According to some embodiments, the non-monetary prize is an aesthetic item that affects the appearance of a player avatar in the next skill game. According to some embodiments, the non-monetary prize is an item that affects a game that affects the performance of a player avatar in a next skill game. According to some embodiments, the item affecting the game is a consumable item that can be used only once in the next skill game. According to some embodiments, the item affecting the game is a durable item that can be used during the next skill game.

  In some embodiments, the non-monetary prize is at least one unit of in-game currency. According to some embodiments, the in-game currency can be used to purchase items that affect aesthetics and games.

  In some embodiments, the non-monetary prize contributes to progress towards completion of the game task. According to some embodiments, completion of the game task leads to receipt of an aesthetic item that affects the appearance of the player avatar in the next skill game. According to some embodiments, completion of the game task leads to receipt of an item affecting the game that affects the performance of the player avatar of the next skill game.

  In some embodiments, the chance game is a reel game. According to some embodiments, the award of the non-monetary prize is determined based on whether one or more predetermined reel symbols appear on the reel game. According to some embodiments, the awarding of a monetary prize is determined based on whether one or more predetermined reel symbols appear on the reel game.

  In some embodiments, the gaming machine is configured to award monetary and non-monetary prizes based on a predetermined probability distribution. According to some embodiments, the probability distribution establishes an inverse relationship between the probability of winning a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize.

  According to some embodiments, the probability distribution is compared to a chance to win both a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize, or to win neither a monetary prize or a non-monetary prize. Thus, a high chance of winning only one of the monetary prize and the non-monetary prize is generated.

  According to some embodiments, the probability distribution is at least one of a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize as compared to a chance of not obtaining either a monetary prize or a non-monetary prize. High chance to win one.

  In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to store the monetary prize in memory and generate a monetary prize display configured to be displayed on a display. The

Some embodiments relate to a method of determining monetary and non-monetary prizes to be awarded, said method comprising:
Presenting at least one chance game on the display of the gaming machine;
Determining a winning event for the at least one chance game;
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Determining a winning event for the game of the at least one skill;
Determining whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize based on the winning game win event;
Determining whether a player is to be awarded a monetary prize based on a winning event of the skill game;
Is provided.

  Some embodiments further comprise accessing at least one monetary paytable to determine whether the player should be awarded a monetary prize. Some embodiments determine whether the player should be awarded a monetary prize by comparing one or more symbols generated by the chance game to the at least one monetary paytable. The method further includes a step of determining.

  Some embodiments further comprise accessing at least one non-monetary paytable to determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize. In some embodiments, the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize by comparing one or more symbols generated by the chance game to the at least one non-monetary paytable. The method further includes a step of determining whether or not.

  According to some embodiments, the non-monetary, monetary prize affects at least one aspect of the next skill game.

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

In the following, some embodiments will be described in detail by way of example, and the accompanying drawings referred to therein show the following matters.
1 is a graphical representation of a gaming system according to some embodiments, implemented in the form of a stand-alone gaming machine. It is a schematic block diagram of the core component of the game system of FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a game system according to some embodiments, where the game system is implemented via a network. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of software components of a gaming system according to some embodiments. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for controlling game play on a gaming machine, in accordance with some embodiments. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a character selection screen. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a virtual position selection screen. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a base game screen. FIG. 9 is a detailed diagram of the symbol set shown in FIG. 8. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a base game screen. 4 is an exemplary screenshot of a meta game task screen. FIG. 12A is an exemplary screenshot of a meta game task screen showing tasks to complete. FIG. 12B is a detailed view of an exemplary player level bar portion of the base game screen. FIG. 12C is an exemplary screenshot of a base game screen that highlights winning metagame combinations. 4 is an exemplary screen shot of a feature game screen. 6 is a graph illustrating example probability distributions for providing monetary and non-monetary prizes according to some embodiments. FIG. 15A is an example of a character according to some embodiments. FIG. 15B is an example of the character of FIG. 15A with some additional aesthetic items according to some embodiments. FIG. 15C is an example of the character of FIG. 15A with some additional aesthetic and game affecting items according to some embodiments. FIG. 6 is an example chart showing rewards for monetary and non-monetary prizes according to some embodiments. FIG. 6 is an example of a screenshot of a base game screen according to some embodiments. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an alternative method for controlling game play on a gaming machine in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 19 is an example of a screen shot of a base game screen showing a quest popup box. It is an example of the screenshot of property inventory selection. It is an example of the screenshot of an alternative property list selection screen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The random number generator 210 generates a random number or a pseudo-random number for the purpose of determining the result of a chance-based game played on the game machine 100. In some embodiments, the random number generator 210 can be implemented in software as part of the game software module 231. In some other embodiments, the random number generator 210 can be implemented in firmware or in hardware. In some embodiments, the form taken by the random number generator 231 can be defined by game regulations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  A payment mechanism including a coin tray is similar to the payment mechanism 225 and coin tray 116, can be mounted under the console, and can be prepared for cash or other payments from the machine 1304 to the player. A hopper device can be provided that dispenses coins or tokens into the coin tray equal to the current credit amount for the machine. Apart from the coin tray, the payment mechanism issues tickets that are distributed by printers, notebook dispensers, near field communication transmitters, or means that enable remote credit transfer that the user can exchange for cash. Alternatively or additionally may be included. Other suitable payment mechanisms can be implemented in accordance with the described embodiments, such as a player's electronically recordable identification or fund transfer to a smart card.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The base game pay table data 402 may include data related to a pay table used for a base game played on the game machine 100. The base game paytable data 402 can be used to calculate the total amount of points, credits or other prizes earned by the player of the gaming machine 100 when playing the base game. The base game paytable data 402 can be used to determine the total amount earned based on the combination of symbols that appear on the visual display 104. The base game paytable data 402 can relate to the symbol data 401 as a total amount earned by the player as determined by the value of the symbol as stored in the symbol data 401. The base game paytable data 402 has a predetermined probability distribution, as will be described later with reference to FIG. The base game paytable data 402 may also store a reward schedule for giving a metagame reward. Base game paytable data 402 may be static data that is programmed into memory 204 during development.

  The meta game pay table data 403 may include data relating to a pay table used for a meta game played on the game machine 100. The paytable data 403 can be used to calculate the total amount of points, credits or other prizes earned by the player of the gaming machine 100 when playing the metagame. The paytable data 403 can be used to determine the total amount to be earned based on the combination of symbols appearing on the visual display 104. The meta game pay table data 403 can relate to the symbol data 401. In some embodiments, the metagame paytable data 403 can also be related to the base game paytable data 402, so the metagame result or win event can be related to the base game result or win event. it can. The meta game pay table data 403 has a predetermined probability distribution as will be described later with reference to FIG.

  According to some embodiments, based on the game result of the chance presented to the gaming machine 100, the base game paytable data 402 is used to determine whether or not the player should be awarded a monetary prize. The meta game paytable data 403 may be used to determine whether or not a non-monetary prize should be given to the player. Should the processor 202 access the base game paytable data 402 and the metagame paytable data 403 and compare the chance game results with the paytable data to give one or more monetary or non-monetary prizes? May be configured to determine whether or not. According to some embodiments, the non-monetary prize may include progress through a metagame task.

  The meta game task data 404 may include data related to a task that is completed by a player during a meta game played on the game machine 100. For example, the metagame task data 404 may include information about the number of tasks that the player needs to complete before receiving a prize or obtaining a particular level. The task data 404 can further include information about the result of the symbol that can cause the task to be determined to be completed. In some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 is metagame paytable data 403 to allow completion tasks that are completed based on results as determined from the metagame paytable data 403 to be completed. Can be related to.

  In some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 may be used to determine whether a player should be awarded a non-monetary prize based on the game outcome of the chance presented to the gaming device 100. is there. The processor 202 accesses the meta game pay table data 403 and compares the game result of the chance with the meta game pay table data 403, and the game result causes progress in the meta game task defined by the meta game task data 404. May be configured to determine whether or not. For example, progress in a metagame may be triggered when a particular combination of symbols is shown in a chance game. Once a predetermined level of progress has been completed in a metagame task, the processor 202 may determine that the task has been completed and be configured to reward the player with a non-monetary prize.

  The metagame task data 404 can also be related to the position data 406 and the character data 405 because the particular task to be completed may depend on the position and character selected by the player. In some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 can be related to game themes or game scenario data in the same manner as or in place of the location data 406. Tasks can also depend on the current theme of the game. The game theme can be changed while playing the game. For example, when a player completes one or more metagame goals and feature games at a particular map location (including a particular associated theme), the player may move to another map location with a different associated theme Can be determined. In some alternative embodiments, game themes and / or scenarios may be selectable by the player independently of position or for position alternatives.

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

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

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

  The feature game prize data 408 may include data related to the total amount of points, credits, or other prizes that are earned by the player of the gaming machine 100 when playing the feature game. The feature game prize data 408 may include information about the number of prizes included in the feature game and the location where they are placed. The feature game award data 408 relates to the feature game map data 407 to allow the award to be placed at various locations within the feature game location as defined by the feature game map data 407. Can do.

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

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

  The base game module 411 may be executable by the processor 202 such that a base game, which may be a reel type game in some embodiments, is displayed on the visual display 104. The base game can be any chance-based game, where it is randomly selected from a larger symbol set for display on the visual display 104 with or without the appearance of a spinning reel. A symbol subset, such as a two-dimensional array of symbols, is generated using a random number generator 210. In some embodiments, the random number generator 210 is used to determine the stop position of each reel of a set of virtual reels for display on the visual display 104. Each virtual reel may comprise a plurality of symbols, and in some embodiments, the reel may include symbols on the order of 20, 40, or 60. The symbol set from which the symbol subset displayed for the base game is randomly selected can allow a reasonable degree of variation among the symbols selected over a large number of instances for symbol subset generation It is said to be the size to make. A symbol subset can include multiple instances of the same symbol. In some embodiments, as described below with reference to FIG. 17, at least some symbols on each virtual reel may include overlay symbols. In some embodiments, the symbols in the symbol set may not include overlay symbols, as described below with reference to FIGS. In some embodiments, multiple instances of the same symbol may have different or the same overlay in some embodiments. In some embodiments, overlays may be distributed so that multiple instances of the same overlay are rarely shown. For example, if one of the overlay symbols is a gold star, it may be relatively rare to obtain a result containing 5 gold stars. If the chance-based game is not a reel-type game, the two-dimensional array of symbols may be randomly selected from a larger symbol set that has a probability distribution similar to that of the reel game.

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

  The metagame module 412 may be executable by the processor 202 to cause the metagame to be shown on the visual display 104. In some embodiments, the metagame can include reel-based games and can use the same reels used for base games. The metagame can be any chance-based game where it is randomly selected from a larger set of symbols for display on the visual display 104 with or without the appearance of a spinning reel. A symbol subset, such as a two-dimensional array of symbols, is generated using a random number generator 210. In some embodiments, the random number generator 210 is used to determine the stop position of each reel of a set of virtual reels for display on the visual display 104. The symbol set from which the symbol subset displayed for the metagame is randomly selected can allow a reasonable degree of variation among the symbols selected over a large number of instances for symbol subset generation It is said to be the size to be. A symbol subset can include multiple instances of the same symbol.

  In some embodiments, the metagame module 412 can be executed when a player initiates game play using the user input 218. The metagame module 412 can have a series of tasks that must be completed. In some embodiments, task completion depends on the appearance of a particular symbol or combination of symbols in a randomly generated symbol subset in the base game. For example, a particular symbol or combination of symbols that appears as part of a base game can contribute to the completion of the task. Accordingly, although the prize symbol combination in the base game may not be the prize symbol combination in the meta game, the base game and the meta game may depend on the same randomly generated symbol subset. In other words, the same symbol subset on which the results of the base game and the meta game are based can give different results to the base game and the meta game, respectively. For example, the prize result in the base game may not correspond to the prize result in the meta game, and vice versa.

  In addition, in some embodiments, the award results in the base game provide a monetary award, while the award results in the metagame can be attributed to character achievement milestones, such as increased levels or increased skills or attributes. Give a non-monetary prize like character promotion for the player who heads. Non-monetary prizes earned in metagames can lead to greater prospects of winning monetary prizes in skill-based feature games, as will be described below. In some embodiments, the outcome of a metagame win is an aesthetic item that can be applied to a character or an item that affects the game, or an aesthetic or game affecting item for use in a skill-based feature game. This leads to a direct reward for non-monetary prizes, such as in-game currency that can be used. An aesthetic item may affect the appearance of a character in a feature game or skill game presented by the gaming device 100. Some examples of aesthetic items are shown in FIGS. 15A-15B. Items that affect the game may affect the performance of the character in the feature game or skill game presented by the gaming device 100. Items that affect the game are consumable items that can be used only once in a feature game or skill game shown by the gaming machine 100, such as potions, medicines or ammunition. In some embodiments, the item that affects the game is a durable item that can be used over the duration of the feature game or skill game shown by the gaming machine 100, such as a weapon or shield. Some examples of items that affect the game are shown in FIGS. 15A-15B.

  The rule criteria and paradigm for determining the award result in the meta game may be different from the rule and paradigm for determining the award result in the base game. For example, the prize result in the meta game does not necessarily depend on the combination of symbols existing in the symbol subset, but the appearance of one or more symbols of a predetermined symbol subset among the randomly generated symbol subsets. Can be. In addition, the award results in the metagame are based on a symbol sequence between randomly generated symbol subsets along a payline, which is a predetermined linear sequence of symbols, or across the randomly shown symbols. Can be due to the emergence of combinations. In some embodiments, the award results may also require one or more predetermined symbols to appear randomly on adjacent reel positions or across all reels. By executing the meta game module 412, the processor 202 can determine whether or not the player has completed the meta game task using the meta game pay table data 403. In some alternative embodiments, the rule criteria and paradigm for determining the metagame award results may be the same as the rules and paradigm for determining the base game award results, but the combination of award symbols Depending on a predetermined combination of symbols.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  When starting the base game, the processor 202 can also start the metagame module 412 based on the metagame task data 404. Metagames allow players to progress in the direction of receiving aesthetic items or items that affect the game, or the direct awarding of non-monetary prizes such as aesthetic and game affecting items To be possible, it can include a series of tasks to be completed by the player. The progress and completion of any task can be determined based on the results of the base game as determined with reference to the metagame paytable data 403.

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

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

  The metagame results are determined by the metagame module 412 based on the metagame task data 404 so that the player progresses towards completion and / or completes one or more tasks or quest sets in the metagame. Can make it possible. The progress made towards the completion of each task can be displayed to the player in the form of a ratio, percentage, progress bar, or other means that indicates promotion through the task. If the metagame result results in completion of all task sets, the player level as stored in the character data 405 can be raised. In some embodiments, some or all player attributes stored in the character data 405 can also be raised. According to some embodiments, the reward that can be awarded to the player upon completion of the metagame task may be a predetermined reward selection. The actual prize awarded to the player may be determined based on a set of prize rules, or may be randomized in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the award may be randomly selected from a subset of rewards determined based on a set of award rules.

  In some embodiments, the metagame results may alternatively or additionally allow the player to achieve other rewards. This can be based on the completion of all tasks in the quest, on each completion of the task, or simply on the combination of symbols displayed during the game. In some embodiments, the metagame results allow players to earn non-monetary prizes, such as aesthetic rewards or rewards that affect the game, that can be applied to the player's character. can do. According to some embodiments, aesthetic rewards may include clothing, accessory items, or other elements of hair style, hair color, ability to change eye color, or the appearance of their character. is there. Rewards that affect the game can only be used once in a potion, ammunition, healing item, or feature game and should be considered "used" or consumed once they are used May include consumables such as Rewards that affect the game may include items with long lasting features, such as weapons, shields, or other items that may be used throughout the duration of the feature game.

  In some embodiments, the metagame allows the player to earn one or more units of in-game virtual currency that the player can later use to purchase rewards that affect aesthetics or the game. It can also be possible. For example, the game may allow players to earn in-game credits, coins, gems, tokens, or other forms of virtual currency. Rewards that affect different aesthetics and games may be able to be purchased virtually and each may cost a different total amount. For example, in some embodiments, the jacket may take 3 coins of in-game currency, the recovery potion may take 5 coins of in-game currency, and boots that increase the player's speed may be in-game currency. 10 coins may be required. In some embodiments, the in-game currency is not convertible to real currency or monetary credits that can be redeemed for real currency.

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

  If the threshold has not been reached, game play returns to step 503 and the processor 202 resumes the base game module 411 so that the player has an additional opportunity to bet and play the base game.

  If the threshold is reached, the player is given an opportunity to participate in the feature game in step 508. If the player chooses not to participate in the feature game, the choice allows time for himself to encounter more metagame goals, for example, and the play returns to step 503 where the processor 202 returns to the base game module 411. By resuming, the player has the additional opportunity to bet and play the base game. In some embodiments, a player may be allowed to participate in a feature game after reaching a predetermined limit. For example, a player may feature, for example, after a predetermined amount of time, after a predetermined number of base games have been played, when the player's character reaches a predetermined level, or after the player has used a predetermined amount or credit amount. You may be able to participate in the game.

  If the player chooses to participate in the feature game, the processor 202 executes the feature game module 413 and the feature game is started in step 509. The feature game can be a skill-based adventure game in some embodiments. In some alternative embodiments, skill-based feature games may include additional chance-based games.

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

  A feature game can allow a player to win both monetary and non-monetary prizes. A monetary prize can be paid from the feature game pool. Non-monetary prizes can have improvements to the visual appearance of characters such as new hairstyles, clothes and accessories. In some embodiments, the non-monetary prize may also have a direct or indirect improvement in the character's attribute rating. For example, a non-monetary prize can be a 10% increase in player character strength. An example of indirect improvement can be receiving a boot where the character increases its speed, or a glove that increases its dexterity. Prizes (including monetary and non-monetary prizes) that can be used in any feature game may be determined by processor 202 based on feature game prize data 408.

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

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

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

  The feature game can be run in step 510 until a predetermined threshold is reached. This can be, for example, a time-based threshold or an achievement-based threshold. When this is reached, the game is returned to the base game in step 503 by the processor 202 restarting the base game module 411.

  In some embodiments, the player may be able to end the game session at any time during game play. Any saved prizes can be paid to the player in the form of cash or credit using the payment mechanism 225 when the player ends the game session. In some embodiments, the gaming machine 100 may issue tickets corresponding to the player characters in the game. For example, the ticket may store an identification number corresponding to an entry in a lookup table that stores data relating to the player character. This ticket may allow the character to be loaded into the game's character in the player's next game session, as described above with reference to step 501. In some embodiments, players may be able to upload their characters into an online gaming environment using a ticket. In some embodiments, only character aesthetics can be transferred, not attributes or items obtained through playing a base game. In some alternative embodiments, in addition to or as an alternative to character aesthetics, character capability ratings and other items such as weapons and shields may be transferred via tickets. it can.

  In some embodiments, the character data may be replaced with a QR code, smart card, magnetic stripe card, near field transfer, or the player can replace their character in their next game session. Can be stored in another form, such as using another electronic or non-electronic means of data storage that can be used to store their character data for loading into the game .

  FIG. 18 illustrates an alternative game method 1800 by implementing a game in a gaming system such as the gaming machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 and the gaming machine 304 shown in FIG.

  The game method 1800 includes code for generating a graphic display on the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/304 to cause the player to indicate whether the player is a resume player or a new player. May include an initial step 1818 to be executed. The prompt may be in the form of a text-based question displayed on the video display 104 of the gaming device 100/304, and may require the player to respond by interacting with one or more input components by the user. is there. For example, if the player is a resuming player, the player can scan the ticket or provide account information such as a name and password that stores data related to the player's account. There is a case. The processor 202 may be configured to authenticate the user account based on the provided account information. The processor 202 may be stored on the gaming machine 100/304 or stored on an external device such as the server 308/310 to retrieve any required game information, such as the player's avatar and level. It may be configured to access a player database and use stored data. If the player is a new player, the player may be able to indicate this, for example, by clicking on a virtual button displayed on the prompt screen.

  In step 1801, the processor 202 determines the resumed player status of the player based on the received user input. If the processor 202 determines that the player is a resume player, the processor 202 is configured to perform step 1805. If it is determined that the player is a new player, the processor 202 is configured to perform step 1802, which causes the processor 202 to notify the player via the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/300. Prompts for display may be provided and the player may be prompted to create a new account, which will prompt the player for user input 218 to enter details such as account name and password. It may be required to use. In some embodiments, the processor 202 does not create a new account for the player, but instead displays an option to play as a “guest” that does not require the player to enter any account information. May be configured to be displayed. According to some embodiments, gaming device 100/304 may be configured to operate without creating a user account. In some embodiments, the game play information is stored by the processor 202 in which the player stores their progress in the game, and at least a portion of the player's past game progress, avatar development, and / or the player's next. May be written on a physical or virtual ticket that may be used to collect equipment or other game items in the game session.

  In step 1803, the processor 202 is configured to generate a prompt and cause the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/300 to display a prompt requesting the player to select a player class. A class may be a character type such as, for example, military, hunter, villain or wisdom. In step 1804, the processor 202 may be configured to generate a prompt requesting the player to create a character and display it on the video display 104 of the gaming device 100/304. In some embodiments, the processor 202 may be configured to generate a prompt for entering a name associated with the character and display it on the video display 104 of the gaming device 100/304. The processor 202 may execute a character generation module 414 that may be read from the character data 405 to obtain character information and display the character on the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/304. Characters can be selected by scrolling through a series of available characters on the touch screen display of gaming device 100. In some embodiments, the character can be created by the player by selecting from a number of different options for the character component. For example, the player may be able to generate a character by selecting from various body shapes, facial features, hairstyles, and clothes that the character has. Characters created by the player may be stored in the player's account information and / or stored in a temporary memory location in the memory 204, and the player's saved character may be stored for the next game session. It may be printed or otherwise written to a physical or virtual ticket at the end of the session so that the player can read it.

  According to some embodiments, steps 1803 and 1804 may be performed in a single step. For example, according to some embodiments, processor 202 may be configured to automatically select a character based on class player selection. In some alternative embodiments, the processor 202 may be configured to generate a graphic prompt for display on the video display 104 to the player to select a character for the first time and is selected. The class may be automatically selected based on the class associated with the character.

  The processor 202 is configured to implement the base game by executing the base game module 411 in step 1805. In some embodiments, the base game may be a reel game executed by the processor 202 executing the base game module 411. The processor 202 may be configured to read symbol data 401 for playing a base game. In some embodiments, the base game can be a different chance-based game, in which the symbols are for display on the visual display 104 without the appearance of a spinning reel. Randomly selected from symbol set. The player can initiate an instance of the base game module 411 by the processor 202 through interaction with the user input 118. The base game module 411 is executed by the processor 202, and a plurality of symbols obtained from the symbol data 401 are selected by the processor 202 for display at a plurality of display positions on the visual display unit 104. In some embodiments where the base game is a reel game, the base game module 411 is executed by the processor 202 and appears to spin the reel virtually on the visual display 104. The selection of symbols can be performed randomly by, for example, a random number generator 414.

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

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

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

At step 1806, the processor 202 determines whether a trigger event has occurred that allows participation in the feature game. In some embodiments, the trigger event may be a software event. According to some embodiments,
The occurrence of the trigger event may be visually indicated to the player through the video display 104 by a display of symbols or symbol combinations on a game display, for example on a reel. In some embodiments, as described above with respect to FIG. 5, the trigger event is configured to occur only after the player reaches a time-based threshold, a spend-based threshold, or a played game threshold. There is a case. In some embodiments, the triggering event may be random within a set time period or pseudo-simulated after the player reaches a time-based threshold, a spend-based threshold, or a played game threshold. May be configured to occur at random times. For example, trigger events can be configured to occur at random times within a set time range after the player reaches a time-based threshold, which can be, for example, a time limit of 5, 10, or 15 minutes. May be. According to some embodiments, the trigger event may be configured to have a predetermined probability of occurrence within a predetermined period. For example, the trigger event may be configured such that the probability of occurrence within 5 minutes is 80% after the threshold of the played game is achieved, for example.

  Until the trigger event occurs, game play continues at step 1805 with the processor 202 having the base game module 411 continue playing and the player has the further opportunity to bet and play the base game.

  When the trigger event occurs, at step 1807, the processor 202 may optionally display an eye-recording surface on the video display 104 to give the player an opportunity to edit the player's inventory before entering the feature game. For example, the eye recording surface may display virtual items owned by the player, such as weapons and potions. The processor 202 may be configured to show virtual inventory items and provide players with an opportunity to purchase new items or to discard existing items from the inventory. Once the player is satisfied with the contents of the inventory, the processor 202 can exit from the inventory page in response to input from the player, and in response, the processor 202 optionally, at step 1808, the gaming machine 100. / 300 video display 104 may display a pre-battle screen where the user can use any potion or other special item to upgrade any weapon or shield before entering the feature game. You may be able to make final character adjustments.

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

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

  In step 1809, the processor 202 executes the feature game module 413 when the player indicates that the player is satisfied with the pre-battle selection using the user input 218 or after a preset period of time has elapsed. The feature game starts. The feature game can be a skill-based adventure game in some embodiments. The feature game can be a battle, treasure hunt, first person shooter, quest, or other type of skill-based game, as described above with reference to FIG.

  The game machine 100/3034 can execute the feature game until a predetermined threshold value, a trigger event, or an end event is reached. When the feature game ends, in step 1810, the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/300 can optionally display a post-battle screen, which can be obtained, for example, during the progress of the feature game. Players can be given the ability to use any virtual credits given.

  After viewing the post-battle results, in step 1810, the video display 104 of the gaming machine 100/300 can display an achievement screen such as the screen 1700 shown in FIG. 17 or the screen 1800 shown in FIG. Can display the statistical value about the game play in the feature game, the obtained results, and the winnings obtained. After viewing the achievements, the processor 202 can cause the video display 104 to re-display the video recording screen in step 1812, in some embodiments, in order to give the player the opportunity to enter an inventory related to the player's avatar. . After displaying the eye recording screen, the game play sequence returns to step 1805 where the processor 202 causes the gaming machine 100/304 to again present the base game to the player via the video display 104.

  Specific examples of game methods 500 and 1800 are described below with reference to screen shots of the display of game system 100 shown in FIGS. 6-13, 17 and 19-20.

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

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

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

  FIG. 9 is a detailed diagram 900 of the symbol set 802. Symbol set 802 displays a plurality of symbols as generated by processor 202 based on symbol data 401. These symbols can include pictographs such as treasure chest symbol 901, torch symbol 902, and sword symbol 905, and alphanumeric symbols such as A symbol 903 and Q symbol 904. In some embodiments, the alphanumeric symbols can correspond to cards from standard decks of cards such as Aces and Queens for A and Q, respectively. The displayed symbol set 802 should be given a monetary and / or non-monetary award by comparing the displayed symbols with those in the base game paytable data 402 and the metagame paytable data 403. May be used by processor 202 to determine whether or not.

 An example of a base game pay table is shown below as Table 1 and each of the amounts shown in this table corresponds to credits that the player will earn based on the appearance of a predetermined combination of symbols. There is.

  PIC1 may be a treasure chest symbol 901, PIC2 may be a torch symbol 902, PIC3 may be a sword symbol 905, and PIC4 may be a shield symbol (not shown).

  An example of a metagame pay table for a non-monetary prize that may be awarded during a metagame based on the appearance of a predetermined symbol combination is shown below as Table 2.

 This table shows both direct non-monetary prizes (eg gold amount, skill cards) as well as metagame progress rewards (eg gold quest ticks), which are symbols that appeared during chance-based games May be given on the basis of a special bond.

  According to some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 may store a relationship between a metagame progress reward and a non-monetary prize that will be awarded to the player after the quest ends. An example of a set of metagame task data 404 that may be used to determine a non-monetary award to be given to a player based on the rewards of metagame progress that have been given to date Table 3 shows. The reward for the progress of the meta game may be given to the player based on the appearance of a predetermined symbol combination as described above in Table 2, for example.

  An example of an alternative meta game pay table will be described later with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10 is an exemplary screenshot of the base game screen 1000 of the gaming machine 100 showing the reward payline 1005 as determined by the processor 202 based on the base game paytable data 402. Reward paylines can appear on the symbol set 802 when the player of the gaming machine 100 bets and causes the symbol set 802 to generate a set of symbols for display. Four treasure chest symbols 901 are shown that cross the reward payline 1005. The remaining symbols, including symbols 902, 903, and 904, are shown not to cross the reward payline. The reward payline can provide a player who earns cash, credits, or other prizes from the gaming device 100. In some embodiments, the reward payline 1005 provides progress in the metagame or is non-monetary based on the metagame paytable 403, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 11-12C. Award rewards can also be brought.

  FIG. 11 is a detailed diagram 1100 of the quest log 807. The quest log 807 shows the player's progress through the metagame as controlled by the metagame module 412 based on information from the metagame task data 404 during play of the base game displayed on the symbol set 802. To track. The quest log 807 indicates a plurality of quests 1101 described as tasks to be completed during the meta game. These tasks can be tailored to the character, game scenario and / or virtual position of the game selected by the player. For example, in selecting a farm location, the task may comprise, for example, “defeat 10 moths”, “protect the village”, and “repair the farm”. Each task can be displayed next to the symbol 1102. In some embodiments, the displayed symbols can correspond to symbols in symbol set 802 and can be related to symbols that need to appear on symbol set 802 to complete a task. Megagame paytable 403 may be used to determine whether a particular symbol contributes to progress in a metagame task.

  A task or quest can include a progress meter 1103, which can indicate how many success symbols more are required to complete before completing the task. The processor 202 can determine the appearance quantity of the success symbol based on the meta game pay table data 403. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, each task requires the appearance of 10 success symbols to complete. The “Defeat 10 Traps” task has been completed 3 out of 10 requested. The “Protect Village” and “Repair Farmer” tasks have been completed 5 and 8 out of the 10 required respectively. In some embodiments, upon completion of each or all quests, the player's character is promoted by one level, gets an increased set of abilities or attributes, or affects aesthetics or the game You may receive or be allowed to receive items. In some embodiments, the player may, alternatively or additionally, improve the level, ability, or ability during play of the feature game by completing a goal or earning points during the feature game. You can get an increased set of attributes or receive items that affect aesthetics or games.

  FIG. 19 is an exemplary screenshot of the base game screen 1900 of the gaming machine 100 showing the pop-up quest log 1902 as generated by the base game module 411 based on information read by the processor 202 from the symbol data 401. is there. The pop-up quest log 1902 can be a temporary display part overlaid on the main display screen. In accordance with some embodiments, the pop-up quest log 1902 can only be displayed when progress occurs on the metagame, as described above with reference to FIG. The pop-up quest log can be displayed for a predetermined period after the progress has occurred. In some embodiments, the pop-up quest log 1902 can additionally or alternatively be displayed in response to another game event or in response to receiving user input.

  Screen 1900 shows a first credit meter 1901, a second credit meter 1902, a game time 1903, and a symbol set 1907 for the base game. According to some embodiments, playing a metagame may allow a player to be given two different forms of virtual currency or credit, as shown in meters 1901 and 1902. According to some embodiments, different credit types may be used to purchase different types of items, as described below with reference to FIGS. The symbol set 1907 may include alphanumeric symbols 1908 as well as image symbols 1909. The screen 1900 includes a selected character 1905 on the background 1904 and credits, bets and win meter 1910 that may indicate the amount of credit the player has, the amount bet on the next game, and the winning amount in a particular game session. , 1911 and 1912 are also displayed. The selected character 1905 may be a character selected by the player using the character selection screen 600.

 A special symbol 1913 is shown as activated and may indicate that a software-based trigger event has been triggered to cause the processor 202 to start a feature game. In some alternative embodiments, the appearance of the special symbol 1913 may cause the progress of at least one quest game, as shown in the pop-up quest log 1914. The pop-up quest log 1914 displays a progress indicator 1915 for each of a plurality of quests. The progress indicator 1915 may indicate the number of special symbols required to complete the quest and how many of these special symbols have already been acquired.

  FIG. 12A is a detailed view of the quest log 807 showing the tasks to be completed. The “Defeat 10 Traps” task 1201 is highlighted when 10 of the 10 requested success symbol appearances have been achieved. Tasks 1202 that have not been completed are not highlighted. According to some embodiments, the player can access a prize table or in-game rules screen to see what symbol combinations they need to complete each of the indicated tasks There is.

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

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

According to some embodiments, the processor 202 may include a plurality of eye-recording screens on the gaming machine 100 prior to participating in the feature game so that the player can purchase consumables and permanent items for use in the feature game. May be configured to display.
FIG. 20 is an exemplary screenshot of a first inventory game screen 2000 of gaming device 100 that allows a player to purchase a permanent item that can be applied to the player's character or avatar. Once purchased, a permanent item will remain in the player's inventory indefinitely. According to some embodiments, a persistent item can be linked to a player's account, so that a persistent item is on the machine even when the player initiates a new game session on the new gaming machine 100. A player log is provided in the player's account and is available to the player. According to some embodiments, persistent items may be available only for a single game session.

  A screen 2000 shows a player's avatar 2001. According to some embodiments, when the player selects an item to equip the player's character or avatar, the processor 202 can allow the player to see how the avatar equipped with that item looks. The item may be configured to virtually overlap the avatar 2001 as a preview. Screen 2000 also shows a page selector 2002 that includes multiple pages of items that the player can purchase or select. The game machine 10/304 may be configured to highlight the currently selected page 2003 and display the unselected page 2004 without highlighting. Each page can be associated with a category of available items, and the title of the selected page can be displayed as a title 2005. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a “head” page has been selected that can be associated with an item worn on the avatar's head. Other categories can include, for example, upper body, lower body, hands, feet, and weapons.

  On each page, a number of items 2006 and 2007 that can be purchased by the player or added to the player's game inventory are displayed. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, two different helmets 2006 and 2007 are shown. Item 2006 represents an item that the player has previously purchased or awarded and is available in the player's inventory for the player to selectively apply to the avatar 2001. Item 2007 represents an item that can be used for purchase by the player. The item cost 2008 is displayed to the player indicating the credit required to purchase the item. When the player selects item 2006 or 2007, an item description 2109 may be displayed. If the player chooses to apply the item to the avatar 2001, the player can equip the item by activating the virtual continuation button 2010. The processor 202 may be configured to store item data in the player account upon receiving a user input indicating that the player has equipped the item.

  The screen 2000 also displays a first credit meter 1901 and a second credit meter 1902. According to some embodiments, only the first type of credit, as indicated by meter 1901, can be used to purchase permanent items as displayed on screen 2000. When the player makes a virtual purchase on the screen 2000, the processor 202 may be configured to decrease the credit indicator 1901 by the cost of the virtual purchase. For example, if the cost of helmet 2007 is 150 virtual credits as indicated by cost 2008, the next time the player purchases helmet 2007, processor 202 will determine the player's virtual credit amount as indicated by credit indicator 1901. Subtract 150 virtual credits from

  Once the player has made all the desired selections, the player can activate the virtual button 2011 and save the equipment set. Once saved, the selection of items that make up the equipment set can be automatically loaded onto the avatar 2001 each time the player starts the feature game. The player can activate a virtual “next screen” button 2012 to advance to the next screen, which in some embodiments may be the second inventory game screen 2100.

  FIG. 21 shows a second inventory game of gaming machine 100 that allows a player to purchase only consumable items that can be used during a limited period of time, such as during a feature game. 4 is an exemplary screenshot of screen 2100. According to some embodiments, when a consumable item is purchased, the consumable item is only available for use in the next one feature game. When the feature game ends, the processor 202 is configured to remove the item from the player's virtual inventory, even if the item is not used by the player. Screen 2100 shows a plurality of items that a player can purchase or add to the player's inventory, including those skills or attributes that can be applied to the player's avatar, and potions It is represented by cards 2101, 2102 and 2103 together with 2111. A player may be able to purchase an item by selecting the item and then activating a purchase button 2115. According to the illustrated embodiment, avatar abilities are represented by cards and consumable items are represented by potions. According to some embodiments, different virtual items may be used to represent player abilities and consumables such as skill “certificates”, spellbook pages, tablets, wearable items, or other expressions. it can.

  The screen 2100 includes a plurality of images of the double-sided cards 2101, 2102, and 2103, the card 2101 has the front side up, the cards 2102 and 2103 have the back side up, and the table contents of the cards 2102 and 2103 are hidden. Has been. The card 2101 is associated with a card purchased, selected or revealed by the player, and one or more special skills or attributes that the player can apply to the player's player avatar during the feature game. Is related to. Each card table has a cost 2104 for selecting and revealing the card, one or more symbols 2105 associated with the card type, an image 2106 associated with the skill or attribute represented by the card, and a title 2107 for the skill or attribute. be able to.

  Cards 2102 and 2103 represent cards that have not yet been purchased or revealed by the player and show only the cost 2108 for purchasing and revealing the cards. Card 2102 shows the currently selected card, as shown by a card that is visually highlighted relative to other elements, such as being slightly lifted against the virtual background. In accordance with some embodiments, the card type and skill represented by the unflipped cards can be unknown to the player. The player can take a chance to purchase a card in the hope that the card represents the desired skill. In some embodiments, the player may be able to look at the surface of the card before choosing to purchase the card and its display skills or attributes.

  Screen 2100 also shows a discard indicator 2109 that indicates the number of cards that the player can discard, and a second credit meter 1902 that indicates how many second virtual credit types are available to the player. According to some embodiments, the second type of virtual credit can only be used to purchase consumable items, not permanent items. If the player reveals a card 2101 that the player does not want, the player can choose to discard it and receive a new card deal. According to some embodiments, a player can be given only a limited number of discards, so whenever a player chooses to discard the card 2101, it is shown on the discard indicator 2109. The number decreases. When the player makes a virtual purchase on the screen 2100, the processor 202 may be configured to decrease the second credit meter 1902 by the cost of the virtual purchase. For example, if the cost of the card 2101 is 35 virtual credits as indicated by the cost 2104, the next time the player purchases the card 2101, the 35 virtual credits will be the player's virtual as shown in the credit meter 1902. Subtracted from total credit.

  Further, the screen 2100 further shows one or more consumable items in the form of a portion 2111 that can be purchased by a player for use during a feature game. Each portion may have a cost 2112, a symbol 2113 and a quantity 2114. Symbol 2113 may indicate the type of portion as well as the amount of portion purchased. For example, the symbol 2113 can be differently shaped for different effects, such as a differently shaped bottle depending on whether the potion is a health potion, a strength enhancing potion, a clearing potion, or another type of potion. . The symbol 2113 can indicate a full bottle showing the full dose of the potion, or a half full bottle if the potion is only half the dose, and the half full bottle only has half the effect on the player's avatar during the feature game. Can do. The quantity 2114 indicates the number of specific potions that the player has already purchased and is included in the player's inventory.

  Once the player has purchased everything he wants, the player can activate a virtual button 2116 for progress, which causes the processor 202 to display a feature game on the gaming machine 100/304. .

  FIG. 13 is an exemplary screen shot of the feature game screen 1300 of the game machine 100. Screen 1300 includes a character information display portion having character image 1301, character name 1302, character health display 1303, character experience display 1304, and points 1305 achieved by the player. The screen 1300 also shows a countdown timer 1306 that indicates the time left for the player to navigate through the virtual environment to collect rewards before the feature game ends. In some embodiments, the feature game can end when either timer 1306 expires or when player strength 1303 expires, whichever occurs first. The total amount of reward collected by the player is indicated by a reward meter 1307. A message bar 1308 can be used to display a message to players playing the feature game. As the player navigates the character 1310 through the virtual environment displayed using the user input 218, the character can interact with objects in the environment, such as a treasure chest 1309 or other reward trigger object. . By opening treasure chest 1309, the player can accumulate rewards, points, or other prizes. In some embodiments, rewards can be transferred to cash or credits at the end of the game. In some embodiments, the box 1309 can include non-monetary prizes such as clothes, weapons, or other changes to the character 1310. In some embodiments, a player interacts with other characters or objects in a feature game, such as fighting bosses, villains or monsters, unlocking doors, trapping, or solving puzzles. It may also be possible to win further monetary or non-monetary prizes.

  FIG. 14 shows a graph 1400 showing an example of a probability distribution that may be realized by the gaming machine 100 in order to balance the probability of players who receive monetary and non-monetary prizes as described above. . The non-monetary axis 1401 shows the non-monetary prize acquisition or non-winning probability distribution based on the acquisition section 1402 and the loss section 1403. The monetary axis 1404 shows the probability distribution of earning or not earning a monetary prize based on the earning section 1405 and the loss section 1406. Sections 1402, 1403, 1405 and 1406 divide the graph 1400 into areas 1407, 1408, 1409 and 1410. Area 1407 corresponds to the probability distribution that the player will win both monetary and non-monetary prizes. Area 1408 corresponds to a probability distribution where the player wins a monetary prize but does not win a non-monetary prize. Area 1409 corresponds to the probability distribution that the player wins a non-monetary prize instead of a monetary prize. Area 1410 corresponds to a probability distribution in which the player does not win either a monetary or non-monetary prize.

  Areas 1407 and 1408 correspond to the player's monetary acquisition, where the player's satisfaction is increased, but the gaming machine 100 is required to receive a monetary prize from the prize pool. . The ratio between the award and non-award results for monetary prizes ensures that the gaming machine is profitable and meets regulatory standards for minimum return to players Balance must be maintained. In a gaming machine with only a monetary prize, this causes players to feel that they do not win enough often and cause dissatisfaction with the game. However, the gaming machine 100 or 300 is configured to also allow the acquisition of non-monetary prizes in the context of hybrid skills and a chance-based gaming environment, without affecting the profitability of the gaming machine. Satisfaction can be increased. Areas 1407 and 1409 of the graph 1400 correspond to the player's non-monetary victory, where the player's satisfaction increases, but the gaming machine 100 is awarded a monetary prize from the prize pool. Not required.

  A probability distribution 1411 of the graph 1400 is an example of a probability distribution of game results over time on the game machine 100 or 300 that may be realized by the base game pay table data 402 and the meta game pay table data 403. As indicated by the large intersection between areas 1408 and 1409 having a probability distribution 1411, the probability distribution 1411 indicates that the player has either a monetary prize without a non-monetary prize or a monetary prize. A reverse relationship is established between the awarding of the non-monetary prize and the monetary prize so that one of the non-monetary prizes will be obtained most. The player wins both a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize, as indicated by a small intersection between areas 1407 and 1410 having a probability distribution 1411, or a monetary prize is also a non-monetary prize. It's unlikely that you won't even get a book. As can be seen in the graph 1400, as the intersection between the area 1410 and the probability distribution 1411 shows, the probability that the player will not acquire anything is relatively low, so that the player A game is created that makes it easy to feel and wants to continue playing.

  The probability distribution 1411 shown in the graph 1400 is just one example of a distribution that may be implemented in the gaming machine 100 or 300, and the exact shape and size of the probability distribution 1411 is determined by the player in monetary and non-monetary awards. May change to change the probability of winning. For example, if the probability distribution 1411 occupies the entire graph 1400, the probability that the player will win a monetary prize is 50%, and the probability that the player will win a non-monetary prize is also 50%. However, the probability of winning both a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize, or not winning any prize, is 25% respectively. In some embodiments, the probability distribution 1411 may be shifted. If the probability distribution 1411 is shifted to the upper left, the player can easily obtain both a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize, and a state in which neither prize can be obtained may be difficult to occur. If the probability distribution 1411 is shifted to the lower left, the player may easily obtain a non-monetary prize and may not easily obtain a monetary prize.

  The size and shape of the probability distribution 1411 may, for example, be closer to a circle or be changed to a horseshoe or U shape. Probability distribution 1411 need not be symmetrical or curved in shape, and may be triangular, square, rectangular, or other shapes. The exact shape and size of the probability distribution 1411 may be determined based on the desired operation characteristics of the game machine 100. The intersection of probability distributions 1411 having monetary prize acquisition areas 1407 and 1408 may be initially determined based on regulatory requirements and the desired profitability of gaming machine 100 or 300. Thereafter, an intersection of probability distributions 1411 having non-monetary prize acquisition areas 1409 and 1410 may be determined to further enhance player satisfaction through non-monetary prize bonuses.

  FIGS. 15A-15B show a character with varying types of items that affect aesthetics and games.

  FIG. 15A shows 1500 for a character that may be a basic character according to some embodiments. The basic character has the lowest level in the game and may be the character that the player is awarded at the start of the game. The character may be wearing some basic aesthetic items such as hood 1501, tights 1502, and boots 1503. A character may have additional basic items that affect some games, such as a wand 1504.

  FIG. 15B shows a character 1520 having additional aesthetic items that may have been earned as non-monetary prizes by the player during metagame play, as described above with reference to FIG. In some embodiments, based on progress in a meta game or feature game, the character 1500 may transform into a character 1520 when the character 1500 reaches a certain level. Character 1520 has a different style of hood 1521 and also wears tunic 1522, pants 1523 and shoes 1524. These aesthetic items do not affect the ability of the character 1520. The character 1520 uses a staff 1504 that is the same staff as the character 1500.

  FIG. 15C shows a character 1540 with additional aesthetic and game-affecting items that may have been earned by the player as a non-monetary prize during metagame play, as described above with reference to FIG. Indicates. In some embodiments, the character 1520 may transform into a character 1540 when the character 1520 reaches a certain level based on progress in the metagame or feature game. Character 1540 has different styles of hood 1541, tunic 1542, pants 1543 and shoes 1544. These aesthetic items do not affect the ability of character 1540. The character 1540 also has a cane 1545 which is a different cane from the characters 1500 and 1520. According to some embodiments, the wand 1545 may be a game-affecting item that may give the character 1540 increased ability, such as increased strength or reflexes during combat. . The character 1540 further includes a knife 1546, which may be an item that affects the game, that can be used by the player due to increased abilities during combat in close combat with the enemy.

  Hood 1541, tunic 1542, pants 1543, shoes 1544, cane 1545 and knife 1546 are further examples of non-monetary prizes that can be earned during game play of base games, meta games and / or feature games.

  FIG. 16 shows a chart 1600 of various paths for obtaining monetary and non-monetary prizes via the game environment 1601 shown on the gaming machine 100/300. According to some embodiments, from the gaming environment 1601, a player can play both a chance-based game 1602 and a skill-based game 1603. According to the chance-based game 1604, the player may be able to obtain the monetary prize 1604 based on the game result based on the base game paytable data 403 as described above with reference to FIG. According to the chance-based game 1602, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 17, the player implements the metagame progress 1605 based on the game result, or based on the metagame paytable data 403. In some cases, a direct non-monetary prize 1606 can be obtained. Metagame progress 1605 may provide a contribution towards the completion of a game task or quest or other metagame goal, and the completion of that task, quest or other metagame goal may cause the player to directly In some cases, a monetary prize 1606 may be obtained.

  Non-monetary prizes 1606 may include in-game currency 1607, aesthetic items 1608, items 1609 that affect the game, and consumable items 1610. In-game currency 1607 may be used by a player to purchase one or more of aesthetic items 1608, items 1609 that affect the game, or consumable items 1610.

  According to the skill-based game 1603, the player may be able to obtain a monetary prize 1606 based on the result of the game. According to the skill-based game 1603, the player may be able to obtain a direct non-monetary prize 1606. As described above, the non-monetary prize 1606 may include an in-game currency 1607, aesthetic items 1608, items 1609 that affect the game, and consumable items 1610.

  FIG. 17 is an example of a screen shot of the base game screen 1700 of the game machine 100 as generated by the base game module 411 based on the information read by the processor 202 from the symbol data 401. Screen 1700 shows symbol set 802 for the base game, as described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. The screen 1700 also displays the selected character 803 and the credit, bet and earn meter 804 that may indicate the amount of credit, bet, and amount that the player has in a particular game session. Yes. As shown in FIG. 6, the selected character 803 may be a character selected by the player using the character selection screen 600. Screen 1700 also shows a level indicator 806 that includes the current level (exemplary implementation) along with a bar graph showing the progress of the level to the next level (which is level 20 in the exemplary embodiment). The form is level 19). The level indicator 806 is described above in further detail with reference to FIGS. 11-12C.

  FIG. 17 displays a character skill bar 1701 that may indicate character strength, agility, speed, or other characteristic character. FIG. 17 shows the character name, level and type in the character summary 1705. In the illustrated embodiment, the character is a level 19 wisdom character and the character name is Mortimer Muffin. The name of the character may be selected by the player, randomly generated, or tied to the player type.

  FIG. 17 illustrates a number of overlay symbols 1702, 1703, and 1704 that may be used to determine the outcome of the metagame based on the metagame paytable data 403. In the illustrated embodiment, the overlay symbols include a gold star 1702, a silver star 1703, and a bronze star 1704. According to some embodiments, the appearance and arrangement of overlay symbols may be used to determine the outcome of a metagame. The result may be determined based on the position of the overlay symbols with respect to each other and / or the position of the overlay symbols with respect to the symbol set 802. An example of a paytable for a non-monetary prize that may be awarded during a metagame based on the appearance of a predetermined combination of overlay symbols is shown below as Table 4.

  This table is a direct non-monetary prize (eg gold amount, or skill card) and metagame progress that may be awarded based on special combinations of overlay symbols that appear during chance-based games Reward (for example, Gold Quest ticket).

  According to some embodiments, the metagame task data 404 may store a relationship between a metagame progress reward that may be awarded to the player upon completion of the quest and a non-monetary prize. Table 5 below shows an example of a set of metagame task data 404 that may be used to determine a non-monetary award to be awarded to a player based on the metagame progress reward awarded. The meta game progress reward may have been awarded to the player based on the appearance of a predetermined combination of overlay symbols, for example, as shown above in Table 4.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some embodiments relate to a gaming machine for awarding monetary and non-monetary prizes, the gaming machine comprising:
Display,
Memory,
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from a player; and at least one haptic-type user input mechanism for navigating through a skill game;
Present at least one chance game on the display;
Determining whether a winning event of the at least one chance game has occurred ;
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display, the game of skill comprising an application for player skills via the at least one tactile input mechanism;
Determining whether a victory event of the game of the at least one skill has occurred ;
Based on the game the victory event of the opportunity, to determine whether to player will be awarded a non-monetary Shoten,
Based on the game the victory event of the skill, for the player to determine whether it should be awarded a monetary Shoten,
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in memory;
Is provided.

Some embodiments relate to a method of determining monetary and non-monetary prizes to be awarded, the method being performed by a gaming machine,
Presenting at least one chance game on the display of the gaming machine;
Determining whether a winning event of the at least one chance game has occurred ;
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display, the game of skill comprising an application of player skills via a tactile input mechanism of the gaming machine configured to navigate through the game of skill Process,
Determining whether a victory event of the at least one skill game has occurred ;
Determining whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize based on the winning game win event;
Determining whether a player is to be awarded a monetary prize based on a winning event of the skill game;
Is provided.

Claims (30)

A gaming machine for awarding monetary and non-monetary prizes,
Display,
Memory,
At least one input mechanism configured to receive user input from the player;
Present at least one chance game on the display;
Determining a winning event of the at least one chance game;
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Determining a winning event for the game of the at least one skill;
Determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize based on the winning event of the chance game;
In order to determine whether a player should be awarded a monetary prize based on the winning event of the skill game,
A game controller configured to access and execute instructions stored in memory;
A game machine comprising:   The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the game controller is configured to access at least one monetary paytable to determine whether the player is to be awarded a monetary prize.   The game controller determines whether the player should be awarded a monetary prize by comparing one or more symbols generated by the chance game to the at least one monetary paytable. The game machine according to claim 2 configured as described above.   4. The game controller of claim 1, wherein the game controller is configured to access at least one non-monetary pay table to determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize. The game machine according to item 1.   The game controller compares the one or more symbols generated by the chance game with the at least one non-monetary paytable to determine whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize. The game machine of claim 4, configured to determine.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the non-monetary prize affects at least one aspect of a game of the next skill.   The game machine according to claim 6, wherein the non-monetary prize is an aesthetic item that affects the appearance of a player avatar in a game of the next skill.   The game machine according to claim 6, wherein the non-monetary prize is an item that affects a game that affects a performance of a player avatar in a game of the next skill.   The game machine according to claim 8, wherein the item affecting the game is a consumable item that can be used only once in a game of the next skill.   The game machine according to claim 8, wherein the item affecting the game is a durable item that can be used during a game of the next skill.   The game machine according to claim 6, wherein the non-monetary prize is at least one unit of in-game currency.   The game machine according to claim 11, wherein the in-game currency can be used to purchase items that are aesthetic and affect the game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the non-monetary prize contributes to progress toward completion of a game task.   14. The gaming machine of claim 13, wherein completion of the game task leads to receipt of an aesthetic item that affects the appearance of a player avatar in a next skill game.   14. The game machine according to claim 13, wherein completion of the game task leads to receipt of an item that affects the game that affects the performance of the player avatar of the next skill game.   The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the chance game is a reel game.   The gaming machine of claim 16, wherein the awarding of a non-monetary prize is determined based on whether one or more predetermined reel symbols appear on the reel game.   18. A gaming machine according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the awarding of a monetary prize is determined based on whether one or more predetermined reel symbols appear on the reel game.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the game machine is configured to award a monetary and non-monetary prize based on a predetermined probability distribution.   The game machine according to claim 19, wherein the probability distribution establishes an inverse relationship between the probability of winning a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize.   The probability distribution is compared to a chance to win both a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize, or a chance to win neither a monetary prize nor a non-monetary prize. The game machine according to claim 19 or 20, wherein a high chance of acquiring only one of the monetary prizes is generated.   The probability distribution generates a higher chance to win at least one of a monetary prize and a non-monetary prize compared to a chance to win neither a monetary prize or a non-monetary prize. The game machine according to any one of claims 19 to 21.   23. The controller of claim 1-2, wherein the controller is further configured to store the monetary prize in a memory and generate a monetary prize display configured to be displayed on a display. The game machine of any one of Claims. A method for determining the monetary and non-monetary prizes to be awarded,
Presenting at least one chance game on the display of the gaming machine;
Determining a winning event for the at least one chance game;
Presenting a game of at least one skill on the display;
Determining a winning event for the game of the at least one skill;
Determining whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary prize based on the winning game win event;
Determining whether a player is to be awarded a monetary prize based on a winning event of the skill game;
A method comprising:   25. The method of claim 24, further comprising the step of accessing at least one monetary pay table to determine whether a player should be awarded a monetary prize.   Further comprising the step of determining whether the player is to be awarded a monetary prize by comparing one or more symbols generated by the game of chance to the at least one monetary paytable. Item 26. The method according to Item 25.   27. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 26, further comprising the step of accessing at least one non-monetary pay table to determine whether the player is to be awarded a non-monetary prize. .   Determining whether the player should be awarded a non-monetary award by comparing one or more symbols generated by the game of chance with the at least one non-monetary paytable. 28. The method of claim 27, comprising:   29. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the non-monetary, monetary prize affects at least one aspect of a game of the next skill.   30. A computer readable medium having stored thereon machine readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method of any one of claims 24 to 29.

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