US20130072290A1 - Multi-player secondary gaming method and system - Google Patents
Multi-player secondary gaming method and system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130072290A1 US20130072290A1 US13/423,167 US201213423167A US2013072290A1 US 20130072290 A1 US20130072290 A1 US 20130072290A1 US 201213423167 A US201213423167 A US 201213423167A US 2013072290 A1 US2013072290 A1 US 2013072290A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- game
- gaming device
- player
- outcome
- gaming
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F9/00—Games not otherwise provided for
- A63F9/24—Electric games; Games using electronic circuits not otherwise provided for
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
- G07F17/326—Game play aspects of gaming systems
- G07F17/3267—Game outcomes which determine the course of the subsequent game, e.g. double or quits, free games, higher payouts, different new games
Definitions
- the present invention is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/712,628, filed Nov. 11, 2003, entitled “Multi-Player Secondary Gaming System and Method,” and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/424,814, filed Nov. 12, 2002, entitled “Multi-Player Value Wheel Game Method and Apparatus,” all of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth in the present specification.
- the present invention is related generally to gaming systems and more particularly to gaming systems and methods allowing secondary gaming for multiple players.
- Gaming systems continue to become popular among casino gaming players. In part, this is attributable to the ever-increasing game varieties available on the market. Players appreciate new game varieties they have never played particularly when “gaming” is involved.
- the term “gaming,” “gaming devices,” “gaming systems,” indicates that wagering or a wagering variant is involved so players can bet money or currency equivalents (e.g., token, credit, etc.) to win more money.
- Slot machines are examples of gaming systems that remain popular among gaming enthusiasts.
- a slot machine can receive money (or other value items) from a player for a chance to win more money. After the wager amount is deposited into the slot machine, the player spins the slot machine reels to display a random combination of indicia, such as numbers or symbols.
- the machine releases money into a payout chute or onto a credit meter for collection by the player. Returns can vary depending upon the initial wager amount. For example, if a player initially wagered two coins and that player won a high payout, that player may receive fifty coins of the same denomination in return.
- wheel of fortune typically includes a rotating disk or wheel having numbers, symbols or other indicia on the wheel's face.
- a stationary pointer such as a flexible resilient flipper can point to the winning numbers when the wheel becomes stationary (after spinning).
- a number of games incorporating a wheel of fortune have been devised including a televised game titled “Wheel of Fortune,” which combines a spin of a wheel of fortune with players' attempts to complete and/or guess at a hidden phrase by choosing, winning or buying letters of the alphabet which are revealed to the players if contained in the hidden phrase.
- bonus feature used in conjunction with existing games. Because the development of diversions and new games is costly and time consuming without certainty as to whether the game will be accepted by the gaming public, use of bonus features on established and accepted games is becoming popular.
- one U.S. patent discloses a bonus feature, wherein a player may qualify for a bonus game on a gaming machine after achieving a predetermined winning outcome. Since this bonus feature is only available to those players who achieve the predetermined winning outcome, other players can become bored and are likely to cease playing the game. There is, therefore, a need to provide bonus games in which a bonus or winning outcome creates a socially exhilarating group win environment around the game.
- a method for enabling multiple networked gaming devices to participate in a secondary game is disclosed.
- a gaming device is provided by which a player can initiate a primary game.
- the primary game may be a table game, poker, video slot or a traditional slot machine such as rotatable reels, wheel of fortune or the like.
- the gaming device is qualified to participate in a secondary game by using a predetermined primary game outcome or indicia, such as a SPIN symbol on the popular wheel of fortune game.
- a secondary game indication cycle is triggered for a predetermined duration, for example, after qualification of the gaming device.
- the duration of the secondary game indication cycle can be determined by other events.
- duration of the secondary game indication cycle can be determined by a predetermined number of primary game plays, or even a predetermined number of predetermined primary game play outcomes. Thereafter, additional gaming devices are qualified to participate in the secondary game by using predetermined primary game outcomes during the secondary game indication cycle.
- the secondary game payout award is increased by a value. Thereafter, the secondary game is initiated and the selected secondary game payout award is awarded to every gaming device qualified to participate in the secondary game.
- the payout awards can be displayed as indicia (e.g. $10.00, $20.00, $30.00, $40.00) on a secondary game display.
- the secondary game display may be separate or the same as the primary game display.
- the primary game player qualifies for the secondary game when a predetermined primary game outcome (e.g., a $ indicia) is randomly received.
- a predetermined primary game outcome e.g., a $ indicia
- the player and other players playing eligible gaming devices receive another predetermined primary game outcome, they are provided with an opportunity (for a random or predetermined number of game plays, time frames, or any combination of, etc.) to increase and win a prize award in the secondary game.
- the value of the prize awards displayed are increased.
- prize award amounts are displayed for the secondary game. And, during the secondary game, at least one displayed prize award is randomly selected and awarded to all of the participating gaming devices connected to the network.
- players before or after primary game play of an eligible gaming device, players can select a predetermined primary or secondary game outcome that they believe will be the next primary or secondary game outcome.
- next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome is determined, if the player(s) selection is the same, the player wins at least one prize determined by the wager placed and the predetermined odds associated with the selected predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome.
- An advantage of the present invention is the provision of a simple game enhancement that can be used in combination with existing games to generate and sustain player interest by offering a socially exhilarating group win environment around multiple games.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a conventional gaming system for awarding payouts and prizes, the system being modifiable as proves necessary for implementing the various embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method for using the present invention in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a conventional gaming system 10 for awarding payouts and prizes.
- gaming system 10 comprises a programmable controller 100 and one or more gaming devices 104 , 104 A, 104 B.
- Gaming system 10 further comprises programmable Machine Interface Boards 102 , 102 A, 102 B; overhead displays 116 , 116 A or an existing display 106 with a generic display interface 108 ; an optional sound units 112 ; trigger board units 114 ; and one or more “break in” devices 120 for system programming (on a casino floor, for example).
- Gaming system 10 may be utilized for implementing the present invention with various modifications as proves necessary to implement the invention.
- the present invention may be implemented as part of any novel programmable electronic or computer-controlled gaming devices that offer a game payout that can be used in conjunction with a typical networked gaming system.
- the novel gaming device preferably has various output devices, which may include a display screen for displaying aspects of the invention as described more thoroughly below.
- Other output devices may include audio outputs such as speakers, bells, whistles and the like, and signaling devices such as controllable lights and the like.
- a number of types of input devices can be used by which the user can place wagers and/or play the game, including touch screen input devices, joysticks, mouse input devices, keyboards, buttons, levers and the like as well as coin or currency acceptors and/or validators, card readers such as credit card readers or other encoded-card readers.
- gaming terminals may be provided with communication devices, e.g., for purposes for accounting, maintenance, management, security, controls, updating and the like.
- the invention is implemented on one or more existing electronic or computer-controlled gaming devices.
- One or more gaming devices 104 , 104 A are coupled to a programmable controller 100 over a communication network 124 , which could be any suitable serial or parallel bus arrangement.
- any communication link 124 could be utilized under the method of the present invention and a programmable (controller) 100 could be located remotely from or within the gaming devices 104 , 104 A.
- a programmable (controller) 100 could be located remotely from or within the gaming devices 104 , 104 A.
- At each gaming device 104 there may be a programmable machine interface board 102 that interfaces between the conventional electronic circuitry of gaming device 104 and the communication network 124 .
- any conventional electronic or computer-controlled gaming device e.g. video games, spinning reel slot games, keno games, live card games with tables interfacing with electronic equipment, Internet and/or networked games, etc.
- any conventional electronic or computer-controlled gaming device e.g. video games, spinning reel slot games, keno games, live card games with tables interfacing with electronic equipment, Internet and/or networked games, etc.
- receive bets in order to play a game at the machine can be used for the methods of the present invention.
- the design and operation of gaming devices is well known and conventional gaming machines are available such as from International Gaming TechnologyTM and BallyTM. Modifications to previous gaming devices for use in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can include, e.g., providing graphics, instructions, harnessing, prize indications and the like to inform players how to play the game, meter displays, etc.
- the controller 100 can also be any suitable computer-based controller.
- the controller 100 can be any one of different controllers and computer based processing systems. How the controller 100 communicates with each gaming machine 104 over the communication network 124 is a matter of design choice and the protocols of communication are determined by the nature of the communication network 124 and the corresponding interface circuits.
- the controller 100 may optionally be connected over communication link 124 to another computer system, not shown.
- the network 124 in some embodiments is a telecommunications network such as a phone link, Intranet, Internet, satellite, etc.
- the gaming devices are implemented as game software in personal computers which are located in remote locations such as hotel/motel rooms, homes, etc.
- the player becomes eligible to win and to increase (e.g., by 1 ⁇ , 2 ⁇ , 3 ⁇ or through other traditional means that are well known in the art) at least one discernible indicia (e.g., fixed or progressive prize award e.g. $10.00, $20.00, $30.00, $40.00) displayed 116 in a secondary game.
- At least one discernible indicia e.g., fixed or progressive prize award e.g. $10.00, $20.00, $30.00, $40.00
- Any conventional eligibility requirements such as rate of play, wager, max wager, insertion of player cards, one or more predetermined indicia, separate wager bet, etc. can be used.
- Any traditional means of displaying 116 discernible indicia for a secondary game or any combination of maybe utilized under the method of the present invention which will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, such as on gaming device 104 and/or on the video screen (not shown) of gaming device 104 and/or showcased on a display 116 or 106 above the individual gaming device 104 or a group of gaming devices 104 .
- the player and other players playing eligible gaming devices 104 , 104 A, 104 B are provided with at least one opportunity (for a random or predetermined number of game plays, predetermined number of predetermined primary game play outcomes, time frames, or any combination of, etc) to increase 1 ⁇ and win at least one prize award displayed 116 in a secondary game by receiving another predetermined primary game outcome through primary game play.
- the value of the prize awards displayed 116 are increased 2 ⁇ e.g., $20.00, $40.00, $60.00, $80.00.
- At least one of the prize award amounts displayed 116 that has been multiplied e.g., 20.00, $40.00, $60.00, $80.00 is then randomly selected (e.g., $60.00) in the secondary game and awarded to all of the participating gaming devices connected to the network that received at least one predetermined primary game outcome 104 (e.g., $60.00) and 104 A (e.g., $60.00).
- the player(s) before or after primary game play of an eligible gaming device 104 , the player(s) are provided with an opportunity to wager on and select (through traditional means) at least one predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome that the player(s) believes will be the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome from at least one gaming device 104 , 104 A, 104 B connected to the communication network 124 .
- next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome is determined, if the player(s) selection is the same, the player wins at least one prize that has been determined by the wager placed and the predetermined odds associated with the selected predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome. If the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome achieved is not the same as at least one of the predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcomes selected by the player, the player loses.
- all the gaming devices 104 , 104 A, 104 B connected to the network 124 have the same primary game e.g., Jacks or Better Poker.
- the player can select from e.g., (FOUR OF A KIND pays 10 to 1, FULL HOUSE pays 5 to 1, FLUSH pays 4 to 1, STRAIGHT pay 4 to 1 and THREE OF A KIND pays 2 to 1) as the next predetermined primary game outcome.
- the player on gaming device 104 wagers $1.00 and selects a FLUSH as the next predetermined primary game outcome.
- the next predetermined primary game outcome is THREE OF A KIND on gaming device 104 A and the player loses.
- FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method for using the present invention in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the method employs gaming system 10 , described above, which is a gaming network having a plurality of gaming devices 104 , 104 A, 104 B.
- gaming system 10 which is a gaming network having a plurality of gaming devices 104 , 104 A, 104 B.
- the method includes a number of steps, namely, initiating a primary type game by using gaming device 104 , and then using this device to qualify for participation in a secondary type game.
- a secondary game indication cycle is triggered to run before the secondary type game is initiated.
- the secondary game indication cycle is capable of running for a predetermined duration. During the predetermined duration of the secondary game indication cycle, additional gaming devices are qualified to participate in the secondary type game. Further, for each qualified gaming device, the payout award for the secondary type game is increased by a value.
- the secondary type game begins and is played by every gaming device previously qualified to participate in the secondary type game. Thereafter, payout awards are then awarded to all of the qualified gaming devices.
- the method of the present invention begins when a player uses gaming device 104 to initiate a primary type game.
- a primary type game is an initial or main game, such as the main game of wheel of fortune.
- the primary game can be initiated by inserting a dollar amount into a currency acceptor, placing a wager and initiating game play.
- gaming device 104 is qualified to participate in a secondary type game.
- the secondary type game is a game subsequent to the primary game. Secondary games provide additional entertainment value to create player appeal, raise coin-in, and increase playing time on casino gaming devices, for example. A subsequent wheel of fortune game is an example of a secondary type game.
- Gaming device 104 can become qualified for the secondary game by randomly receiving a predetermined primary game outcome or indicia. For example, in a primary type wheel of fortune game, gaming device 104 becomes qualified when the player places max wager, initiates game play and receive a predetermined indicia (e.g. a SPIN symbol on the third reel).
- a predetermined indicia e.g. a SPIN symbol on the third reel.
- a secondary game indication cycle is triggered to run before the secondary type game is initiated. It is during this secondary game indication cycle that additional players can become eligible for the secondary type game play (block 207 ).
- additional players can become eligible for the secondary type game play (block 207 ).
- other gaming devices 104 A, 104 B can qualify to play the secondary type game in order to increase the number of players, which creates more excitement compared to having a solo player participating individually in the secondary type game. Qualifying the players within the secondary game indication cycle further creates a “rush” in which players become excited knowing that a limited opportunity to continue game play has been presented.
- Such a window of opportunity may be such that the secondary game indication cycle is capable of running only for a predetermined duration.
- the secondary game indication cycle can be set to run only for 30 seconds, after which additional players can no longer be added.
- other gaming devices 104 A, 104 B can qualify by “hitting” or receiving a predetermined primary game outcome or indicia, similar to the manner in which gaming device 104 qualified for the secondary type game.
- the secondary game indication cycle pendency is determined by a designated number of primary plays (e.g. 3 plays), after gaming device 104 is initially qualified for the secondary type game. For example, in the case of wheel of fortune, the secondary game indication cycle can be terminated after the primary game has been played three additional times following the initial qualification of gaming device 104 for the secondary type game.
- the payout award for the secondary game is increased by a multiple value. For example, if gaming device 104 qualifies for two secondary type bonuses, the payout award is increased by 2 ⁇ . If gaming device 104 B further qualifies for three secondary type bonuses, then the payout award is increased by 3 ⁇ for a total of 5 ⁇ .
- the present invention not only allows multiple gaming devices to participate in a secondary type game within a secondary game indication cycle duration, it further permits the payout awards to be increased for each qualified player or gaming device. In this manner, player excitement and appeal continue to remain at significantly high levels.
- the secondary game indication cycle is terminated. As discussed, the above process of qualifying and multiplying the payout award continues until the secondary game indication cycle is terminated.
- All qualified players or gaming devices are awarded payout amounts determined by the total number of qualifications for the secondary game. For example, assuming that the payout award has reached a 5 ⁇ multiple, all players receive five times (or other randomly selected) the original payout award upon conclusion of the secondary type game.
Abstract
A multi-player secondary gaming method and system. The method enables multiple networked gaming devices to participate in a secondary game. In accordance with this method, a gaming device is provided by which a player can initiate a primary game. The primary game may be a table game, poker, video slot, and traditional slot such as rotatable reels, wheel of fortune or the like. The gaming device is qualified to participate in a secondary game by using a predetermined primary game outcome or indicia, such as a SPIN symbol on the popular wheel of fortune game. Once the gaming device is qualified, a secondary game indication cycle is triggered after qualification of the gaming device. Additional gaming devices are qualified to participate in the secondary game by using at least one predetermined primary game outcome, and the additional gaming devices are qualified during the secondary game indication cycle. For each additional gaming device that is qualified, the secondary game payout award is increased by a value. Thereafter, the secondary game is initiated and the selected secondary game payout award is awarded to every gaming device qualified to participate in the secondary game.
Description
- The present invention is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/712,628, filed Nov. 11, 2003, entitled “Multi-Player Secondary Gaming System and Method,” and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/424,814, filed Nov. 12, 2002, entitled “Multi-Player Value Wheel Game Method and Apparatus,” all of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth in the present specification.
- The present invention is related generally to gaming systems and more particularly to gaming systems and methods allowing secondary gaming for multiple players.
- Gaming systems continue to become popular among casino gaming players. In part, this is attributable to the ever-increasing game varieties available on the market. Players appreciate new game varieties they have never played particularly when “gaming” is involved. Here, the term “gaming,” “gaming devices,” “gaming systems,” indicates that wagering or a wagering variant is involved so players can bet money or currency equivalents (e.g., token, credit, etc.) to win more money.
- Slot machines are examples of gaming systems that remain popular among gaming enthusiasts. A slot machine can receive money (or other value items) from a player for a chance to win more money. After the wager amount is deposited into the slot machine, the player spins the slot machine reels to display a random combination of indicia, such as numbers or symbols.
- If a pre-selected winning combination of indicia is displayed, the machine releases money into a payout chute or onto a credit meter for collection by the player. Returns can vary depending upon the initial wager amount. For example, if a player initially wagered two coins and that player won a high payout, that player may receive fifty coins of the same denomination in return.
- Another popular game of chance is the wheel of fortune. It typically includes a rotating disk or wheel having numbers, symbols or other indicia on the wheel's face. A stationary pointer, such as a flexible resilient flipper can point to the winning numbers when the wheel becomes stationary (after spinning).
- A number of games incorporating a wheel of fortune have been devised including a televised game titled “Wheel of Fortune,” which combines a spin of a wheel of fortune with players' attempts to complete and/or guess at a hidden phrase by choosing, winning or buying letters of the alphabet which are revealed to the players if contained in the hidden phrase.
- Those familiar with gaming and game shows will appreciate that players and observers typically experience a heightened level of anticipation and excitement as they observe one or more moving objects approaching a winning position.
- Although not a game by itself, another popular game type is the “bonus feature” used in conjunction with existing games. Because the development of diversions and new games is costly and time consuming without certainty as to whether the game will be accepted by the gaming public, use of bonus features on established and accepted games is becoming popular.
- For example, one U.S. patent discloses a bonus feature, wherein a player may qualify for a bonus game on a gaming machine after achieving a predetermined winning outcome. Since this bonus feature is only available to those players who achieve the predetermined winning outcome, other players can become bored and are likely to cease playing the game. There is, therefore, a need to provide bonus games in which a bonus or winning outcome creates a socially exhilarating group win environment around the game.
- Regardless of the game being played or the venue in which it is presented for wagering, there is a need for new gaming methods that will attract new entrants to wagering games. Moreover existing games need to hold the attention of existing entrants and spectators so that such games remain attractive relative to the many new game types and diversions constantly being developed.
- Various aspects of the present invention can be found in a multi-player secondary system and method. According to a first aspect, a method for enabling multiple networked gaming devices to participate in a secondary game is disclosed. In accordance with this method, a gaming device is provided by which a player can initiate a primary game.
- The primary game may be a table game, poker, video slot or a traditional slot machine such as rotatable reels, wheel of fortune or the like. The gaming device is qualified to participate in a secondary game by using a predetermined primary game outcome or indicia, such as a SPIN symbol on the popular wheel of fortune game.
- Once the gaming device is qualified, a secondary game indication cycle is triggered for a predetermined duration, for example, after qualification of the gaming device. However, the duration of the secondary game indication cycle can be determined by other events.
- As another example, duration of the secondary game indication cycle can be determined by a predetermined number of primary game plays, or even a predetermined number of predetermined primary game play outcomes. Thereafter, additional gaming devices are qualified to participate in the secondary game by using predetermined primary game outcomes during the secondary game indication cycle.
- For each additional gaming device that is qualified, the secondary game payout award is increased by a value. Thereafter, the secondary game is initiated and the selected secondary game payout award is awarded to every gaming device qualified to participate in the secondary game.
- More specifically, once a player bets the proper wager and initiates primary game play on any participating gaming device connected to a network, the player becomes eligible to win and to increase payout awards. The payout awards can be displayed as indicia (e.g. $10.00, $20.00, $30.00, $40.00) on a secondary game display.
- The secondary game display may be separate or the same as the primary game display. The primary game player qualifies for the secondary game when a predetermined primary game outcome (e.g., a $ indicia) is randomly received. When the player and other players playing eligible gaming devices receive another predetermined primary game outcome, they are provided with an opportunity (for a random or predetermined number of game plays, time frames, or any combination of, etc.) to increase and win a prize award in the secondary game.
- As additional predetermined primary game outcome are received during primary game play, the value of the prize awards displayed are increased. Once the predetermined number of game plays and/or time frame runs out for each player playing a primary gaming device, prize award amounts are displayed for the secondary game. And, during the secondary game, at least one displayed prize award is randomly selected and awarded to all of the participating gaming devices connected to the network.
- According to another embodiment of the present invention, before or after primary game play of an eligible gaming device, players can select a predetermined primary or secondary game outcome that they believe will be the next primary or secondary game outcome.
- When the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome is determined, if the player(s) selection is the same, the player wins at least one prize determined by the wager placed and the predetermined odds associated with the selected predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome.
- If the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome achieved is not the same as at least one of the predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcomes selected by the player, the play is terminated. An advantage of the present invention is the provision of a simple game enhancement that can be used in combination with existing games to generate and sustain player interest by offering a socially exhilarating group win environment around multiple games.
- A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention herein may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the attached drawings. References to “steps” of the present invention should not be construed as limited to “step plus function” means, and are not intended to refer to a specific order for implementing the invention. Further features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present invention, are described in detail below with respect to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements.
-
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a conventional gaming system for awarding payouts and prizes, the system being modifiable as proves necessary for implementing the various embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method for using the present invention in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of aconventional gaming system 10 for awarding payouts and prizes. - Among other components,
gaming system 10 comprises aprogrammable controller 100 and one ormore gaming devices Gaming system 10 further comprises programmableMachine Interface Boards overhead displays display 106 with ageneric display interface 108; anoptional sound units 112;trigger board units 114; and one or more “break in”devices 120 for system programming (on a casino floor, for example).Gaming system 10 may be utilized for implementing the present invention with various modifications as proves necessary to implement the invention. - The present invention may be implemented as part of any novel programmable electronic or computer-controlled gaming devices that offer a game payout that can be used in conjunction with a typical networked gaming system. The novel gaming device preferably has various output devices, which may include a display screen for displaying aspects of the invention as described more thoroughly below. Other output devices may include audio outputs such as speakers, bells, whistles and the like, and signaling devices such as controllable lights and the like.
- A number of types of input devices can be used by which the user can place wagers and/or play the game, including touch screen input devices, joysticks, mouse input devices, keyboards, buttons, levers and the like as well as coin or currency acceptors and/or validators, card readers such as credit card readers or other encoded-card readers. Also, gaming terminals may be provided with communication devices, e.g., for purposes for accounting, maintenance, management, security, controls, updating and the like.
- In an alternate embodiment, the invention is implemented on one or more existing electronic or computer-controlled gaming devices. One or
more gaming devices programmable controller 100 over acommunication network 124, which could be any suitable serial or parallel bus arrangement. - Indeed, any
communication link 124 could be utilized under the method of the present invention and a programmable (controller) 100 could be located remotely from or within thegaming devices gaming device 104, there may be a programmablemachine interface board 102 that interfaces between the conventional electronic circuitry ofgaming device 104 and thecommunication network 124. - With a need for no more than relatively minor modifications, any conventional electronic or computer-controlled gaming device (e.g. video games, spinning reel slot games, keno games, live card games with tables interfacing with electronic equipment, Internet and/or networked games, etc.) that receive bets in order to play a game at the machine can used for the methods of the present invention.
- The design and operation of gaming devices is well known and conventional gaming machines are available such as from International Gaming Technology™ and Bally™. Modifications to previous gaming devices for use in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can include, e.g., providing graphics, instructions, harnessing, prize indications and the like to inform players how to play the game, meter displays, etc. The
controller 100 can also be any suitable computer-based controller. - The
controller 100 can be any one of different controllers and computer based processing systems. How thecontroller 100 communicates with eachgaming machine 104 over thecommunication network 124 is a matter of design choice and the protocols of communication are determined by the nature of thecommunication network 124 and the corresponding interface circuits. - The
controller 100 may optionally be connected overcommunication link 124 to another computer system, not shown. Furthermore, thenetwork 124 in some embodiments is a telecommunications network such as a phone link, Intranet, Internet, satellite, etc. In such embodiments, the gaming devices are implemented as game software in personal computers which are located in remote locations such as hotel/motel rooms, homes, etc. - In an embodiment of the present invention, once a player bets the proper wager and initiates a primary game play on any participating
gaming device communication network 124, the player becomes eligible to win and to increase (e.g., by 1×, 2×, 3× or through other traditional means that are well known in the art) at least one discernible indicia (e.g., fixed or progressive prize award e.g. $10.00, $20.00, $30.00, $40.00) displayed 116 in a secondary game. Any conventional eligibility requirements such as rate of play, wager, max wager, insertion of player cards, one or more predetermined indicia, separate wager bet, etc. can be used. - Any traditional means of displaying 116 discernible indicia for a secondary game or any combination of maybe utilized under the method of the present invention which will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, such as on
gaming device 104 and/or on the video screen (not shown) ofgaming device 104 and/or showcased on adisplay individual gaming device 104 or a group ofgaming devices 104. - When a player playing an
eligible gaming device 104 receives a predetermined primary game outcome, the player and other players playingeligible gaming devices - Whenever another predetermined primary game outcome is received during primary game play on at least one of the
eligible gaming device 104A during the predetermined number of game plays, the value of the prize awards displayed 116 are increased 2× e.g., $20.00, $40.00, $60.00, $80.00. - Once the predetermined number of game plays run out for each player playing the
eligible gaming devices - According to another embodiment of the present invention, before or after primary game play of an
eligible gaming device 104, the player(s) are provided with an opportunity to wager on and select (through traditional means) at least one predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome that the player(s) believes will be the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome from at least onegaming device communication network 124. - When the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome is determined, if the player(s) selection is the same, the player wins at least one prize that has been determined by the wager placed and the predetermined odds associated with the selected predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome. If the next predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcome achieved is not the same as at least one of the predetermined primary game and/or secondary game outcomes selected by the player, the player loses.
- In an embodiment of the present invention, all the
gaming devices network 124 have the same primary game e.g., Jacks or Better Poker. The player can select from e.g., (FOUR OF A KIND pays 10 to 1, FULL HOUSE pays 5 to 1, FLUSH pays 4 to 1, STRAIGHT pay 4 to 1 and THREE OF A KIND pays 2 to 1) as the next predetermined primary game outcome. - All other game outcomes in this embodiment are not used but may be used in other embodiments. The player on
gaming device 104 wagers $1.00 and selects a FLUSH as the next predetermined primary game outcome. The next predetermined primary game outcome is THREE OF A KIND ongaming device 104A and the player loses. -
FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method for using the present invention in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. - Briefly, the method employs
gaming system 10, described above, which is a gaming network having a plurality ofgaming devices - The method includes a number of steps, namely, initiating a primary type game by using
gaming device 104, and then using this device to qualify for participation in a secondary type game. Whengaming device 104 is qualified for the secondary type game, a secondary game indication cycle is triggered to run before the secondary type game is initiated. - Note that, in one embodiment, the secondary game indication cycle is capable of running for a predetermined duration. During the predetermined duration of the secondary game indication cycle, additional gaming devices are qualified to participate in the secondary type game. Further, for each qualified gaming device, the payout award for the secondary type game is increased by a value.
- Upon conclusion of the secondary game indication cycle, the secondary type game begins and is played by every gaming device previously qualified to participate in the secondary type game. Thereafter, payout awards are then awarded to all of the qualified gaming devices.
- In more detail, at
block 201, the method of the present invention begins when a player usesgaming device 104 to initiate a primary type game. A primary type game is an initial or main game, such as the main game of wheel of fortune. The primary game can be initiated by inserting a dollar amount into a currency acceptor, placing a wager and initiating game play. - Next, at
block 203,gaming device 104 is qualified to participate in a secondary type game. As implied by its name, the secondary type game is a game subsequent to the primary game. Secondary games provide additional entertainment value to create player appeal, raise coin-in, and increase playing time on casino gaming devices, for example. A subsequent wheel of fortune game is an example of a secondary type game. -
Gaming device 104 can become qualified for the secondary game by randomly receiving a predetermined primary game outcome or indicia. For example, in a primary type wheel of fortune game,gaming device 104 becomes qualified when the player places max wager, initiates game play and receive a predetermined indicia (e.g. a SPIN symbol on the third reel). - At
block 205, a secondary game indication cycle is triggered to run before the secondary type game is initiated. It is during this secondary game indication cycle that additional players can become eligible for the secondary type game play (block 207). Here is another advantage of the present invention. - Within the available window of the secondary game indication cycle,
other gaming devices - Once the available window of opportunity created by the secondary game indication cycle is gone (block 211), additional players can no longer be added. Such a window of opportunity may be such that the secondary game indication cycle is capable of running only for a predetermined duration.
- For example, the secondary game indication cycle can be set to run only for 30 seconds, after which additional players can no longer be added. Within the 30 seconds,
other gaming devices gaming device 104 qualified for the secondary type game. - In fact, even gaming device 104 (and other gaming devices) can qualify, as many times as possible, for additional secondary bonuses or games during the pendency of the secondary game indication cycle. In an alternate embodiment, the secondary game indication cycle pendency is determined by a designated number of primary plays (e.g. 3 plays), after
gaming device 104 is initially qualified for the secondary type game. For example, in the case of wheel of fortune, the secondary game indication cycle can be terminated after the primary game has been played three additional times following the initial qualification ofgaming device 104 for the secondary type game. - At
block 209, for each additional gaming device that is qualified for the secondary game, the payout award for the secondary game is increased by a multiple value. For example, ifgaming device 104 qualifies for two secondary type bonuses, the payout award is increased by 2×. Ifgaming device 104B further qualifies for three secondary type bonuses, then the payout award is increased by 3× for a total of 5×. - Here is a further advantage of the present invention. Unlike the prior art, the present invention not only allows multiple gaming devices to participate in a secondary type game within a secondary game indication cycle duration, it further permits the payout awards to be increased for each qualified player or gaming device. In this manner, player excitement and appeal continue to remain at significantly high levels.
- At
block 211, the secondary game indication cycle is terminated. As discussed, the above process of qualifying and multiplying the payout award continues until the secondary game indication cycle is terminated. - At
block 213, upon conclusion of the secondary game indication cycle, the secondary type game is initiated and the payout award is awarded to every gaming device qualified to participate in the secondary type game. This is another novel aspect of the present invention hereto not seen in the prior art. - All qualified players or gaming devices are awarded payout amounts determined by the total number of qualifications for the secondary game. For example, assuming that the payout award has reached a 5× multiple, all players receive five times (or other randomly selected) the original payout award upon conclusion of the secondary type game.
- While the above is a complete description of exemplary specific embodiments of the invention, additional embodiments are also possible. Thus, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.
Claims (11)
1. A method for playing a multiplayer secondary bonus game in a gaming network having multiple gaming devices including a first gaming device and a second gaming device, the method comprising:
receiving a wager amount from a player and allowing the player on the first gaming device to select one of a plurality of possible game outcomes of a subsequent game to be played on the second gaming device;
initiating the subsequent game on the second gaming device and playing the game to its conclusion to determine the actual game outcome; and
awarding one or more prizes to the player if the game outcome selected by the player on the first gaming device and the actual game outcome on the second gaming device are the same.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising
providing an option for the player on the first gaming device to wager and select a possible outcome for each subsequent game on the second gaming device.
3. In a networked gaming system having multiple gaming devices including a first gaming device associated with a first player and a second gaming device associated with a second player, said gaming devices adapted to play primary and secondary bonus games, a method for playing a game, said method comprising:
accepting a player input on the first gaming device to select an outcome for a game to be played on the second gaming device;
initiating the game on the second gaming device and playing the game to conclusion to determine an actual outcome for the game;
comparing the outcome selected by the player on the first gaming device and the actual outcome of the game on the second gaming device; and
if said selected outcome and the actual outcome are the same, awarding one or more prizes to the first player on the first gaming device.
4. The method of claim 3 wherein the game is a primary game.
5. The method of claim 3 wherein the game is a secondary bonus game.
6. The method of claim 3 further comprising
receiving a wager amount from a player on the second gaming device and allowing the player to bet on one of a plurality of outcomes on a subsequent primary game on the first gaming device.
7. A method for enabling the gaming devices to wager on game outcomes in a multi-player primary and secondary bonus game network, the method comprising:
using a first gaming device to select a potential outcome for a game played on a second gaming device;
initiating game play on the second gaming device until an outcome is generated; and
awarding one or more prizes to the first gaming device if the potential outcome selected by using the first gaming device matches the outcome of game play on the second gaming device.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein the game is a primary game.
9. The method of claim 7 wherein the game is a secondary bonus game.
10. A networked gaming system comprising:
a controller;
a first gaming device having a display device, an input device and a computer processor; and
a second gaming device having a display device, an input device and a computer processor, wherein the computer processor of the first gaming device is configured with the display device and the input device to:
(a) accept a player input on the first gaming device;
(b) use the first gaming device to select an outcome for a game to be played on the second gaming device, wherein the computer processor of the second gaming device is configured with the display device and the input device to:
(c) initiate the game and play the game to conclusion on the second gaming device to determine an actual outcome for the game, wherein said controller is configured to:
(d) compare the outcome selected by the player using the first gaming device and the actual outcome of the game on the second gaming device; and
(e) if said selected outcome and the actual outcome are the same, award one or more prizes to the player on the first gaming device.
11. The system of claim 10 wherein the processor of the first gaming device is configured to provide an option for the player on the first gaming device to wager and select a possible outcome for each of subsequent game on the second gaming device.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/423,167 US20130072290A1 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2012-03-17 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US42481402P | 2002-11-12 | 2002-11-12 | |
US10/712,628 US8162666B2 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2003-11-12 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
US13/423,167 US20130072290A1 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2012-03-17 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/712,628 Division US8162666B2 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2003-11-12 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130072290A1 true US20130072290A1 (en) | 2013-03-21 |
Family
ID=34552688
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/712,628 Expired - Fee Related US8162666B2 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2003-11-12 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
US13/423,167 Abandoned US20130072290A1 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2012-03-17 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/712,628 Expired - Fee Related US8162666B2 (en) | 2002-11-12 | 2003-11-12 | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US8162666B2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (51)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8869177B2 (en) * | 2007-09-06 | 2014-10-21 | International Business Machines Corporation | Decoupling components of a software system at compile time and load time |
US7273415B2 (en) | 2000-09-07 | 2007-09-25 | Igt | Gaming device having a bonus scheme with multiple selection groups |
US7314408B2 (en) | 2003-07-23 | 2008-01-01 | Igt | Methods and apparatus for a competitive bonus game with variable odds |
US7354342B2 (en) | 2003-07-30 | 2008-04-08 | Igt | Gaming device having a multiple coordinate award distributor including award percentages |
US7699316B2 (en) * | 2004-06-30 | 2010-04-20 | Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc. | Gaming system with multiple game apparatus and method of use |
CN101065743A (en) | 2004-08-03 | 2007-10-31 | 威格沃克公司 | Gaming method and device involving progressive wagers |
US8021230B2 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2011-09-20 | Igt | Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards |
US7963847B2 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2011-06-21 | Igt | Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards |
US8251791B2 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2012-08-28 | Igt | Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards |
EP1791611A4 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2009-09-23 | Igt Reno Nev | Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards |
US7892093B2 (en) | 2004-08-19 | 2011-02-22 | Igt | Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards |
US7427236B2 (en) * | 2004-09-01 | 2008-09-23 | Igt | Gaming system having multiple gaming devices that share a multi-outcome display |
US8651939B2 (en) | 2004-10-01 | 2014-02-18 | Igt | Gaming system having a plurality of adjacently arranged gaming machines and a mechanical moveable indicator operable to individually indicate the gaming machines |
US20060166726A1 (en) | 2005-01-24 | 2006-07-27 | Jay Chun | Methods and systems for playing baccarat jackpot |
US9640017B2 (en) | 2005-08-31 | 2017-05-02 | Igt | Gaming system and method employing rankings of outcomes from multiple gaming machines to determine awards |
US9552686B2 (en) | 2005-09-02 | 2017-01-24 | Igt | Video and mechanical spinning bonus wheel |
US8137188B2 (en) | 2005-09-09 | 2012-03-20 | Igt | Server based gaming system having multiple progressive awards |
US7841939B2 (en) | 2005-09-09 | 2010-11-30 | Igt | Server based gaming system having multiple progressive awards |
US8128491B2 (en) | 2005-09-09 | 2012-03-06 | Igt | Server based gaming system having multiple progressive awards |
US7780520B2 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2010-08-24 | Igt | Gaming device having multiple different types of progressive awards |
US20070225066A1 (en) * | 2006-03-22 | 2007-09-27 | Labtronix Concept Inc. | Method and system for providing a feature game divided in multiple instances |
US7682248B2 (en) | 2006-06-09 | 2010-03-23 | Igt | Gaming system and method for enabling a player to select progressive awards to try for and chances of winning progressive awards |
US7674178B2 (en) | 2006-06-09 | 2010-03-09 | Igt | Gaming system and method for enabling a player to select progressive awards to try for and chances of winning progressive awards |
US7677971B2 (en) | 2006-06-09 | 2010-03-16 | Igt | Gaming system and method for enabling a player to select progressive awards to try for and chances of winning progressive awards |
US8070597B2 (en) | 2006-08-03 | 2011-12-06 | Igt | Gaming device and method having multiple progressive award levels and a secondary game for advancing through the progressive award levels |
US8012014B2 (en) | 2006-08-22 | 2011-09-06 | Igt | Gaming system having awards provided based on rate of play |
US7727065B2 (en) | 2006-08-23 | 2010-06-01 | Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc. | Gaming system with multiple game apparatus and method of use |
US8262456B2 (en) * | 2006-10-10 | 2012-09-11 | Wms Gaming Inc. | Wagering game with community game feature |
US8523665B2 (en) | 2006-10-11 | 2013-09-03 | Igt | Gaming system and method having multi-level mystery triggered progressive awards |
US7914377B2 (en) | 2006-11-07 | 2011-03-29 | Igt | Gaming device with dynamic progressive and bonus architecture |
US9047733B2 (en) | 2006-11-08 | 2015-06-02 | Igt | Gaming system and method for providing multiple level progressive awards with increased odds of winning higher level progressive awards |
US7963845B2 (en) | 2006-11-08 | 2011-06-21 | Igt | Gaming system and method with multiple progressive award levels and a skill based determination of providing one of the progressive award levels |
US20080108430A1 (en) | 2006-11-08 | 2008-05-08 | Igt | Gaming system and method which provides players an opportunity to win a progressive award |
US8105149B2 (en) | 2006-11-10 | 2012-01-31 | Igt | Gaming system and method providing venue wide simultaneous player participation based bonus game |
US8092297B2 (en) | 2007-11-07 | 2012-01-10 | Igt | Gaming system and method for providing a bonus based on number of gaming machines being actively played |
US8231448B2 (en) | 2007-11-09 | 2012-07-31 | Igt | Gaming system and method for providing purchasable bonus opportunities |
US8662985B2 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2014-03-04 | Bradley W. Johnson | Adding secondary game to conventional gaming machines |
US20090275392A1 (en) * | 2008-04-30 | 2009-11-05 | Bally Technologies, Inc. | Encouraging multiple player participation in primary or secondary bonus games |
US20090325714A1 (en) * | 2008-06-27 | 2009-12-31 | Bryan Kelly | Gaming machine triggering system events |
US20090325715A1 (en) * | 2008-06-27 | 2009-12-31 | Bryan Kelly | Methods for gaming machine triggering system events |
US20100120485A1 (en) * | 2008-09-01 | 2010-05-13 | Moody Ernest W | Multiple player bonus game method |
US8376836B2 (en) | 2008-11-07 | 2013-02-19 | Igt | Server based gaming system and method for providing deferral of bonus events |
US8376823B2 (en) * | 2009-07-04 | 2013-02-19 | Ernest Moody Revocable Trust | Bonus round feature for communal gaming |
US8545312B2 (en) | 2011-09-22 | 2013-10-01 | Igt | Gaming system, gaming device, and method changing awards available to be won in pending plays of a game based on a quantity of concurrently pending plays of the game |
US8708804B2 (en) | 2012-06-22 | 2014-04-29 | Igt | Gaming system and method providing a collection game including at least one customizable award collector |
US9623321B2 (en) | 2012-09-25 | 2017-04-18 | Igt | Gaming system and method for providing a group event eligibility sequence and a group event |
US9533216B2 (en) | 2012-09-25 | 2017-01-03 | Igt | Gaming system and method for providing a multiple player game |
US9390585B2 (en) | 2013-07-17 | 2016-07-12 | Igt | Gaming system and method for providing team play benefits |
US9098968B1 (en) | 2014-02-12 | 2015-08-04 | Igt | Gaming system and method for accumulating and redeeming community game tokens |
US10169957B2 (en) | 2014-02-13 | 2019-01-01 | Igt | Multiple player gaming station interaction systems and methods |
US10068415B2 (en) * | 2014-04-08 | 2018-09-04 | Igt | Gaming system and method providing a multiplayer secondary game having an outcome determined based on play of a primary game of at least one, but not all, of the multiplayer secondary game players |
Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6033307A (en) * | 1998-03-06 | 2000-03-07 | Mikohn Gaming Corporation | Gaming machines with bonusing |
US6059658A (en) * | 1996-11-13 | 2000-05-09 | Mangano; Barbara | Spinning wheel game and device therefor |
US6319122B1 (en) * | 1998-12-31 | 2001-11-20 | Walker Digital, Llc | Electronic amusement device and method for providing payouts based on the activity of other devices |
US6364765B1 (en) * | 1998-07-01 | 2002-04-02 | Walker Digital, Llc | Electronic amusement device offering secondary game of chance and method for operating same |
US6386974B1 (en) * | 1998-10-09 | 2002-05-14 | Anchor Gaming | Method of playing game and gaming device with interactive driving game display |
US20020193158A1 (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2002-12-19 | Weiss Steven A. | Gaming device having first chance means and serially dependent second chance means |
US20020198044A1 (en) * | 2001-04-11 | 2002-12-26 | Walker Jay S. | Method and apparatus for facilitating a secondary wager at a slot machine |
US20030119581A1 (en) * | 2001-12-20 | 2003-06-26 | Cannon Lee E. | Method and apparatus for a player-controllable bonus game |
US6692354B2 (en) * | 1998-06-29 | 2004-02-17 | Igt | Method of playing a group participation game |
US20050181860A1 (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2005-08-18 | Nguyen Binh T. | Gaming device having secondary game played in parallel with primary game |
US20060009283A1 (en) * | 2003-07-02 | 2006-01-12 | Wms Gaming Inc. | Gaming machine having a community game with side wagering |
Family Cites Families (45)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CA2170633A1 (en) * | 1993-08-27 | 1995-03-02 | Christopher Russell Byrne | Super keno |
US5580309A (en) * | 1994-02-22 | 1996-12-03 | Sigma Game, Inc. | Linked gaming machines having a common feature controller |
US5655961A (en) * | 1994-10-12 | 1997-08-12 | Acres Gaming, Inc. | Method for operating networked gaming devices |
US5779544A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-07-14 | Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc. | Combined slot machine and racing game |
US5876284A (en) * | 1996-05-13 | 1999-03-02 | Acres Gaming Incorporated | Method and apparatus for implementing a jackpot bonus on a network of gaming devices |
US6712699B2 (en) * | 1998-03-31 | 2004-03-30 | Walker Digital, Llc | Apparatus and method for facilitating team play of slot machines |
US6312332B1 (en) * | 1998-03-31 | 2001-11-06 | Walker Digital, Llc | Method and apparatus for team play of slot machines |
US6142872A (en) * | 1998-03-31 | 2000-11-07 | Walker Digital, Llc | Method and apparatus for team play of slot machines |
US6206782B1 (en) * | 1998-09-14 | 2001-03-27 | Walker Digital, Llc. | System and method for facilitating casino team play |
US6126542A (en) * | 1997-08-11 | 2000-10-03 | Boyd Gaming Corporation | Gaming device and method offering primary and secondary games |
US6068553A (en) | 1997-08-15 | 2000-05-30 | Parker; Alan Geoffrey | Gaming machines |
US6186895B1 (en) * | 1997-10-07 | 2001-02-13 | Mikohn Gaming Corporation | Intelligent casino chip system and method or use thereof |
US6089976A (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2000-07-18 | Casino Data Systems | Gaming apparatus and method including a player interactive bonus game |
US6146273A (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2000-11-14 | Mikohn Gaming Corporation | Progressive jackpot gaming system with secret bonus pool |
US5980384A (en) * | 1997-12-02 | 1999-11-09 | Barrie; Robert P. | Gaming apparatus and method having an integrated first and second game |
US6238288B1 (en) * | 1997-12-31 | 2001-05-29 | Walker Digital, Llc | Method and apparatus for directing a game in accordance with speed of play |
US6190255B1 (en) * | 1998-03-24 | 2001-02-20 | Wms Gaming Inc. | Bonus game for a gaming machine |
US6364768B1 (en) * | 1998-04-28 | 2002-04-02 | Acres Gaming Incorporated | Networked gaming devices that end a bonus and concurrently initiate another bonus |
US6375567B1 (en) * | 1998-04-28 | 2002-04-23 | Acres Gaming Incorporated | Method and apparatus for implementing in video a secondary game responsive to player interaction with a primary game |
US6231445B1 (en) * | 1998-06-26 | 2001-05-15 | Acres Gaming Inc. | Method for awarding variable bonus awards to gaming machines over a network |
US6648753B1 (en) * | 1998-06-29 | 2003-11-18 | Igt | Method of playing a group participation game |
US6358149B1 (en) * | 1998-09-11 | 2002-03-19 | Acres Gaming Incorporated | Dynamic threshold for pool-based bonus promotions in electronic gaming systems |
US6309300B1 (en) * | 1999-09-13 | 2001-10-30 | International Game Technology | Gaming bonus apparatus and method with player interaction |
US7416484B1 (en) * | 1999-11-29 | 2008-08-26 | Bally Gaming, Inc. | Simulated bonus method in finite-pool award system |
US7008319B2 (en) * | 2000-01-25 | 2006-03-07 | Tyler T. Parham | Multi-game machine and method for simultaneous play |
US6565436B1 (en) * | 2000-10-05 | 2003-05-20 | Igt | Gaming device having a weighted probability for selecting a bonus game |
US20020142844A1 (en) * | 2001-02-06 | 2002-10-03 | Kerr Michael A. | Biometric broadband gaming system and method |
US20020160826A1 (en) * | 2001-04-27 | 2002-10-31 | Gomez Benjamin T. | Linked gaming machines |
US6652378B2 (en) * | 2001-06-01 | 2003-11-25 | Igt | Gaming machines and systems offering simultaneous play of multiple games and methods of gaming |
GB2397403A (en) * | 2001-09-18 | 2004-07-21 | Acres Gaming Inc | Player specific game system |
US20030064768A1 (en) * | 2001-09-28 | 2003-04-03 | Fier Robert B. | Video poker game with enhanced bonus game |
US6743096B2 (en) * | 2001-09-28 | 2004-06-01 | Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd | Gaming device and method having an internally-based competition-type bonus event |
US7892088B2 (en) * | 2001-10-18 | 2011-02-22 | Steve Brandstetter | Gaming device having a second separate bonusing event |
US7048628B2 (en) * | 2001-10-18 | 2006-05-23 | Acres Gaming Incorporated | Networked gaming devices using bonus token to effectuate bonus awards |
US6869361B2 (en) * | 2001-11-29 | 2005-03-22 | Igt | System, apparatus and method employing controller for play of shared bonus games |
US7297059B2 (en) * | 2002-01-24 | 2007-11-20 | Progressive Gaming International Corporation | Progressive gaming system and method having fractional progressive jackpot awards |
GB2387950A (en) | 2002-04-23 | 2003-10-29 | Gamesoft Ltd | Tournament play gaming machine |
US20030199306A1 (en) | 2002-04-23 | 2003-10-23 | Gamsoft Limited | Gaming apparatus |
US6887154B1 (en) * | 2002-06-04 | 2005-05-03 | Sierra Design Group | Shared progressive gaming system and method |
US20040053681A1 (en) * | 2002-09-13 | 2004-03-18 | Acres Gaming Incorporated | System for electronic game promotion |
US7850524B2 (en) * | 2003-03-25 | 2010-12-14 | Wms Gaming Inc. | Progressive jackpot game with special bonus |
US7300351B2 (en) * | 2003-06-30 | 2007-11-27 | Wms Gaming Inc. | Gaming machine having a player time-selectable bonus award scheme |
AU2004278891C1 (en) * | 2003-10-02 | 2009-01-22 | Games Global Operations Limited | Multiplayer gaming system and method of operation thereof |
US7427236B2 (en) * | 2004-09-01 | 2008-09-23 | Igt | Gaming system having multiple gaming devices that share a multi-outcome display |
US9159195B2 (en) * | 2005-07-14 | 2015-10-13 | Ag 18, Llc | Interactive gaming among a plurality of players systems and methods |
-
2003
- 2003-11-12 US US10/712,628 patent/US8162666B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2012
- 2012-03-17 US US13/423,167 patent/US20130072290A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6059658A (en) * | 1996-11-13 | 2000-05-09 | Mangano; Barbara | Spinning wheel game and device therefor |
US20020193158A1 (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2002-12-19 | Weiss Steven A. | Gaming device having first chance means and serially dependent second chance means |
US6033307A (en) * | 1998-03-06 | 2000-03-07 | Mikohn Gaming Corporation | Gaming machines with bonusing |
US6692354B2 (en) * | 1998-06-29 | 2004-02-17 | Igt | Method of playing a group participation game |
US6692353B2 (en) * | 1998-07-01 | 2004-02-17 | Walker Digital, Llc | Electronic amusement device offering secondary game of chance and method for operating same |
US6364765B1 (en) * | 1998-07-01 | 2002-04-02 | Walker Digital, Llc | Electronic amusement device offering secondary game of chance and method for operating same |
US6843724B2 (en) * | 1998-07-01 | 2005-01-18 | Walker Digital, Llc | Electronic amusement device offering secondary game of chance and method for operating same |
US6386974B1 (en) * | 1998-10-09 | 2002-05-14 | Anchor Gaming | Method of playing game and gaming device with interactive driving game display |
US6319122B1 (en) * | 1998-12-31 | 2001-11-20 | Walker Digital, Llc | Electronic amusement device and method for providing payouts based on the activity of other devices |
US20020198044A1 (en) * | 2001-04-11 | 2002-12-26 | Walker Jay S. | Method and apparatus for facilitating a secondary wager at a slot machine |
US20060211472A1 (en) * | 2001-04-11 | 2006-09-21 | Walker Jay S | Method and apparatus for facilitating a secondary wager at a slot machine |
US20030119581A1 (en) * | 2001-12-20 | 2003-06-26 | Cannon Lee E. | Method and apparatus for a player-controllable bonus game |
US20060009283A1 (en) * | 2003-07-02 | 2006-01-12 | Wms Gaming Inc. | Gaming machine having a community game with side wagering |
US20050181860A1 (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2005-08-18 | Nguyen Binh T. | Gaming device having secondary game played in parallel with primary game |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20050101384A1 (en) | 2005-05-12 |
US8162666B2 (en) | 2012-04-24 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8162666B2 (en) | Multi-player secondary gaming method and system | |
US7887415B2 (en) | Random payout while maintaining the progressive prize pool at the predetermined average pool size | |
US6626758B1 (en) | Random pay gaming method and system | |
US9640017B2 (en) | Gaming system and method employing rankings of outcomes from multiple gaming machines to determine awards | |
US7666086B2 (en) | Gaming device having selection picks and selection outcomes determined based on a wager | |
US6702671B2 (en) | Dice game and gaming system | |
US7544129B2 (en) | Gaming device having multiple selection groups with related picks | |
US7666089B2 (en) | Gaming device having accumulation game with changing selections | |
US8221206B2 (en) | Gaming device having a partial selectable symbol matrix | |
US7500913B2 (en) | Gaming system which provides multiple players multiple bonus awards | |
US7785189B2 (en) | Central determination gaming system which provides a player a choice in outcomes | |
US7690982B2 (en) | Gaming device having free spin game with terminators and anti-terminators | |
US20060073874A1 (en) | Gaming device having random generation of values and mathematical operations performed on the values | |
US20040072613A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for gaming | |
US20060217170A1 (en) | Gaming System and Method for Providing A Shared Win Award | |
US20040166922A1 (en) | Central determination gaming system with a central controller providing a game outcome and a gaming terminal determining a presentation of the provided game outcome | |
US20060025205A1 (en) | Gaming machine having a wagering game including player-selectable elements that mask unknown types and numbers of various awards | |
US8535156B2 (en) | Gaming system and method for providing a bonus game with a choice by another player(s) | |
WO2005025694A2 (en) | Gaming device having award positions with associated characteristics | |
GB2403159A (en) | Gaming system | |
WO2005025693A2 (en) | Gaming device with offer/acceptance game having offer chosen from multiple formed offers | |
US20080161105A1 (en) | Progressive jackpot gaming systems and methods | |
US20100203958A1 (en) | Progressive game scheme for machine play and lotteries | |
US8414385B1 (en) | Gaming system, gaming device, and method for providing a selection game with offer and acceptance features | |
US20060111164A1 (en) | Wagering game with bonus game |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ACTION GAMING, INC., NEVADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PARHAM, TYLER THOMAS;REEL/FRAME:028109/0059 Effective date: 20120424 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |