GAMING DEVICE HAVING EXPANDING SYMBOL MATRIX

Abstract

A game is provided that may include a plurality of reels, each of the reels comprising a plurality of symbol positions; a plurality of symbols, at least one of the plurality of symbols located in at least one of the plurality of symbol positions; a set of program instructions executable to implement: accepting a wager; receiving an instruction to initiate play of the game; determining a game outcome including a stopping point of the plurality of reels; displaying a portion of the plurality of reels at the stopping point on the display device, the portion of the plurality of reels comprising a first row; issuing a first award and unlocking a second row if a first winning symbol combination is positioned in the first row; and displaying the second row if the second row is unlocked, and issuing a second award if a second winning symbol combination is positioned in the second row.

Claims

1. A game comprising: a plurality of reels, each of the reels comprising a plurality of symbol positions; a plurality of symbols, at least one of the plurality of symbols located in at least one of the plurality of symbol positions; a set of program instructions executable to implement: accepting a wager; receiving an instruction to initiate play of the game; determining a game outcome including a stop position for each of the plurality of reels; displaying a portion of the reels based on each reel's stop position on the display device, the portion of the plurality of reels comprising an initial play matrix; issuing a first award and displaying a second portion of the reels comprising a second play matrix if a first winning symbol combination is positioned on the display device; and issuing a second award if a second winning symbol combination is positioned on the second play matrix.

2. The game of claim 1, further comprising: unlocking third portion of the reels comprising a third play matrix if a second award is issued, and issuing a third award if a third winning symbol combination is positioned in the third play matrix of the reels on the display device.

3. The game of claim 1, wherein the second award is greater than the first award.

4. The game of claim 1, wherein the awards for the first winning symbol combination and second winning symbol combinations are determined by a pay table.

5. The game of claim 1, wherein the first winning symbol combination comprises two identical symbols on the first row.

6. The game of claim 1, wherein the second winning symbol combination comprises three identical symbols on the second row.

7. The game of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of reels comprises at least one blank symbol.

8. The game of claim 1, wherein the reels are spun a first time for the first row and a second time for the second row.

9. A gaming machine comprising: a plurality of reels, each of the reels comprising a plurality of symbol positions; a plurality of symbols, at least one of the plurality of symbols located on at least one of the plurality of symbol positions; a set of program instructions executable to implement: accepting a wager; receiving an instruction to initiate play of the game; determining a game outcome including a stop position for each of the plurality of reels; displaying a portion of the plurality of reels based on each reel's stop position on the display device, the portion of the plurality of reels comprising an initial display matrix; issuing a first award and unlocking a second play matrix if a first winning symbol combination is positioned in the first play matrix; and if the second play matrix is unlocked, displaying the second play matrix, and issuing a second award if a second winning symbol combination is positioned in the second play matrix; and unlocking a third play matrix if a second award is issued, and issuing a third award if a third winning symbol combination is positioned in the third play matrix.

10. The game of claim 9, wherein the awards for the winning symbol combinations are determined by a pay table.

11. The game of claim 9, wherein the first winning symbol combination comprises two identical symbols on the first play matrix.

12. The game of claim 11, wherein the second winning symbol combination comprises three identical symbols on the second play matrix.

13. The game of claim 12, wherein the thrid winning symbol combination comprises four identical symbols on the third play matrix.

14. The game of claim 9, wherein each of the plurality of reels comprises at least one blank symbol.

15. The game of claim 9, wherein the reels are spun a first time for the first play matrix, a second time for the second play matrix, and a third time for the third play matrix.

16. A method of operating a game comprising: providing a game comprising: a plurality of reels, each of the reels comprising a plurality of symbol positions; a plurality of symbols, at least one of the plurality of symbols located in at least one of the plurality of symbol positions; and a set of program instructions executable to implement: accepting a wager; receiving an instruction to initiate play of the game; determining a game outcome including a stop position for each of the plurality of reels; displaying a portion of the plurality of reels based on each reel's stop position on the display device, the portion of the plurality of reels comprising a first play matrix; issuing a first award and unlocking a second play matrix if a first winning symbol combination is positioned in the first play matrix; and if the second play matrix is unlocked, displaying the second play matrix, and issuing a second award if a second winning symbol combination is positioned in the second play matrix.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the first winning symbol combination comprises two identical symbols on the first play matrix.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the second winning symbol combination comprises three identical symbols on the second play matrix.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein each of the plurality of reels comprises at least one blank symbol.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein the reels are spun a first time for the first play matrix and a second time for the second play matrix.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] So the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of embodiments of the present invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of embodiments encompassed within the scope of the present invention, and, therefore, are not to be considered limiting, for the present invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments, wherein:

[0027] FIG. 1A depicts a front perspective view of a gaming device in the form of a slot machine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 1B depicts a front perspective view of a gaming device in the form of a slot machine in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 1C depicts a front perspective view of a gaming device in the form of a mobile device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 1D depicts a front perspective view of a gaming device in the form of a personal computer in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 2A depicts a schematic block diagram of a computer system, which may be used with the gaming devices of FIGS. 1A-1D, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 2B depicts a schematic block diagram illustrating a plurality of gaming terminals and communication with a central controller in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 3A depicts representative displays that may be encountered during a game in accordance with the principles of embodiments of the present invention;

[0034] FIG. 3B depicts a representative pay table that may be encountered during a game in accordance with the principles of embodiments of the present invention; and

[0035] FIGS. 4A-4D depict representative displays that may be encountered during a typical game in accordance with the principles of embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word “may” is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments or other examples described herein. However, it will be understood that these examples may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail, so as to not obscure the following description. Furthermore, the examples disclosed herein are for exemplary purposes only and other examples may be employed in lieu of, or in combination with, the examples disclosed.

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a gaming device having positional symbol awards within a play matrix. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a slot machine having a variety of methods of play to enable specific symbols at predetermined locations to trigger additional potentially award events in the play matrix.

[0039] Two alternative embodiments of the gaming device of the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B as gaming device 10a and gaming device 10b, respectively. Gaming device 10a and/or gaming device 10b are generally referred to herein as gaming device 10.

[0040] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, gaming device 10 has a support structure, housing or cabinet which provides support for a plurality of displays, inputs, controls and other features of a conventional gaming machine. It is configured so that a player can operate it while standing or sitting. The gaming device may be positioned on a base or stand or can be configured as a pub-style table-top game (not shown) which a player can operate preferably while sitting. As illustrated by the different configurations shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the gaming device can be constructed with varying cabinet and display configurations.

[0041] In several embodiments, the electronic gaming devices, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, may comprise all or part of a general purpose computer system, for example, the general purpose computer system of FIG. 2. It should be appreciated, however, the general purpose computing system of FIG. 2 is merely an exemplary embodiment of an electronic device, and actual electronic devices may comprise any one or more components shown in FIG. 2A, suitable for embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] With reference to FIG. 2A, a general purpose computer system in the form of a computer 210 is shown. As understood by embodiments of the present invention, components shown in dashed outline are not part of the computer 210, but are used to illustrate the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2A. Components of computer 210 may include, but are not limited to, a processor 220, a system memory 230, a memory/graphics interface 221, also known as a Northbridge chip, and an I/O interface 222, also known as a Southbridge chip. The system memory 230 and a graphics processor 290 may be coupled to the memory/graphics interface 221. A monitor 291 or other graphic output device may be coupled to the graphics processor 290.

[0043] A series of system busses may couple various system components including a high speed system bus 223 between the processor 220, the memory/graphics interface 221 and the I/O interface 222, a front-side bus 224 between the memory/graphics interface 221 and the system memory 230, and an advanced graphics processing (AGP) bus 225 between the memory/graphics interface 221 and the graphics processor 290. The system bus 223 may be any of several types of bus structures including, by way of example, and not limitation, such architectures include Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus and Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus. As system architectures evolve, other bus architectures and chip sets may be used but often generally follow this pattern. For example, companies such as Intel and AMD support the Intel Hub Architecture (IHA) and the Hyper transport architecture, respectively.

[0044] The computer 210 typically includes a variety of computer readable media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by computer 210 and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer readable media may comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and can accessed by the computer 210.

[0045] Communication media typically embodies computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of the any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer readable media.

[0046] The system memory 230 includes computer storage media in the form of volatile and/or nonvolatile memory such as read only memory (ROM) 231 and random access memory (RAM) 232. The system ROM 231 may contain permanent system data 243, such as identifying and manufacturing information. In some embodiments, a basic input/output system (BIOS) may also be stored in system ROM 231. RAM 232 typically contains data and/or program modules that are immediately accessible to and/or presently being operated on by processor 220. By way of example, and not limitation, FIG. 2 illustrates operating system 234, application programs 235, other program modules 236, and program data 237.

[0047] The I/O interface 222 may couple the system bus 223 with a number of other buses 226, 227 and 228 that couple a variety of internal and external devices to the computer 210. A serial peripheral interface (SPI) bus 226 may connect to a BIOS memory 233 containing the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within computer 210, such as during start-up.

[0048] In some embodiments, a security module 229 may be incorporated to manage receipt of money/credits, issuance of money/credits, and enforcement of policies, as may be required in the gaming industry. In many embodiments, such security module 229 may be coupled with a payment acceptor built into a physical machine. A payment acceptor may include a coin slot and a payment, note or bill acceptor, where the player inserts money, coins or tokens. For example, the player can place coins in the coin slot or paper money, ticket or voucher into the payment, note or bill acceptor. In other embodiments, devices such as readers or validators for credit cards, debit cards or credit slips could be used for accepting payment. In one embodiment, a player may insert an identification card into a card reader of the gaming device. In one embodiment, the identification card is a smart card having a programmed microchip or a magnetic strip coded with a player's identification, credit totals and other relevant information. In one embodiment, money may be transferred to a gaming device through electronic funds transfer. When a player funds the gaming device, the processor determines the amount of funds entered and the corresponding amount is shown on the credit or other suitable display as described above.

[0049] A super input/output chip 260 may be used to connect to a number of ‘legacy’ peripherals, such as floppy disk 252, keyboard/mouse/buttons 262, and printer 296, as examples. The super I/O chip 260 may be connected to the I/O interface 222 with a low pin count (LPC) bus, in some embodiments. The super I/O chip 260 is widely available in the commercial marketplace.

[0050] In one embodiment, bus 228 may be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus, or a variation thereof, may be used to connect higher speed peripherals to the I/O interface 222. A PCI bus may also be known as a Mezzanine bus. Variations of the PCI bus include the Peripheral Component Interconnect-Express (PCI-E) and the Peripheral Component Interconnect-Extended (PCI-X) busses, the former having a serial interface and the latter being a backward compatible parallel interface. In other embodiments, bus 228 may be an advanced technology attachment (ATA) bus, in the form of a serial ATA bus (SATA) or parallel ATA (PATA).

[0051] The computer 210 may also include other removable/non-removable, volatile/nonvolatile computer storage media. By way of example only, FIG. 2A illustrates a hard disk drive 240 that reads from or writes to non-removable, nonvolatile magnetic media. Removable media, such as a universal serial bus (USB) memory 252 or CD/DVD drive 256 may be connected to the PCI bus 228 directly or through an interface 250. Other removable/non-removable, volatile/nonvolatile computer storage media that can be used in the exemplary operating environment include, but are not limited to, magnetic tape cassettes, flash memory cards, digital versatile disks, digital video tape, solid state RAM, solid state ROM, and the like.

[0052] The drives and their associated computer storage media, discussed above and illustrated in FIG. 2A, provide storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computer 210. In FIG. 2A, for example, hard disk drive 240 is illustrated as storing operating system 244, application programs 245, other program modules 246, and program data 247. Note that these components can either be the same as or different from operating system 234, application programs 235, other program modules 236, and program data 237. Operating system 244, application programs 245, other program modules 246, and program data 247 are given different numbers here to illustrate that, at a minimum, they are different elements within the computer 210. A user may enter commands and information into the computer 210 through input devices such as a mouse/keyboard 262 or other input device combination. Other input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processor 220 through one of the I/O interface busses, such as the SPI 226, the LPC 227, or the PCI 228, but other busses may be used. In some embodiments, other devices may be coupled to parallel ports, infrared interfaces, game ports, and the like (not depicted), via the super I/O chip 260.

[0053] The computer 210 may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer 280 via a network interface controller (NIC) 270. The remote computer 280 may be a personal computer, a server, a router, a network PC, a peer device or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described above relative to the computer 210. The logical connection between the NIC 270 and the remote computer 280 depicted in FIG. 2 may include a local area network (LAN), an Ethernet-based network, a wide area network (WAN), or both, but may also include other networks. Such networking environments are commonplace in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet.

[0054] Returning to FIGS. 1A-1D, in one embodiment, as discussed in more detail below, the gaming device randomly generates awards and/or other game outcomes based on probability data. That is, each award or other game outcome is associated with a probability and the gaming device generates the award or other game outcome to be provided to the player based on the associated probabilities. In this embodiment, since the gaming device generates outcomes randomly or based upon a probability calculation, there is no certainty that the gaming device will ever provide the player with any specific award or other game outcome.

[0055] In another embodiment, as discussed in more detail below, the gaming device employs a predetermined or finite set or pool of awards or other game outcomes. In this embodiment, as each award or other game outcome is provided to the player, the gaming device removes the provided award or other game outcome from the predetermined set or pool. Once removed from the set or pool, the specific provided award or other game outcome cannot be provided to the player again. This type of gaming device provides players with all of the available awards or other game outcomes over the course of the play cycle and guarantees the amount of actual wins and losses.

[0056] As shown by FIGS. 1A and 1B, and supported by the elements depicted in FIG. 2A, many embodiments of the present invention comprise at least one, and often a plurality, of input devices in communication with the processor. The input devices can include any suitable device which enables the player to produce an input signal which is read by the processor, for instructing the game and/or gaming device to do something. In one embodiment, after appropriate funding of the gaming device, the input device is a game activation device, such as a pull arm 32 or a play button 34 which is used by the player to start any primary game or sequence of events in the gaming device. The play button can be any suitable play matching such as a bet one button, a max bet button or a repeat the bet button. In one embodiment, upon appropriate funding, the gaming device begins the game play automatically. In another embodiment, upon the player engaging one of the play buttons, the gaming device automatically activates game play.

[0057] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, one input device is a bet one button 36. The player places a bet by pushing the bet one button. The player can increase the bet by one credit each time the player pushes the bet one button. When the player pushes the bet one button, the number of credits shown in the credit display preferably decreases by one, and the number of credits shown in the bet display preferably increases by one. In another embodiment, one input device is a bet max button (not shown) which enables the player to bet the maximum wager permitted for a game of the gaming device.

[0058] In one embodiment, one input device is a cash out button 38. The player may push the cash out button and cash out to receive a cash payment or other suitable form of payment corresponding to the number of remaining credits. In one embodiment, when the player cashes out, the player receives the coins or tokens in a coin payout tray 40. In one embodiment, when the player cashes out, the player may receive other payout mechanisms such as tickets or credit slips redeemable by a cashier or funding to the player's electronically recordable identification card.

[0059] In one embodiment, one input device is a touch-screen coupled with a touch-screen controller, or some other touch-sensitive display overlay to allow for player interaction with the images on the display. The touch-screen and the touch-screen controller are connected to a video controller. A player can make decisions and input signals into the gaming device by touching touch-screen at the appropriate places.

[0060] In one embodiment, the gaming device includes a sound generating device controlled by one or more sound cards which function in conjunction with the processor. In one embodiment, the sound generating device includes at least one and preferably a plurality of speakers or other sound generating hardware and/or software for generating sounds, such as playing music for the primary and/or secondary game or for other modes of the gaming device, such as an attract mode. In one embodiment, the gaming device provides dynamic sounds coupled with attractive multimedia images displayed on one or more of the display devices to provide an audio-visual representation or to otherwise display full-motion video with sound to attract players to the gaming device. During idle periods, the gaming device may display a sequence of audio and/or visual attraction messages to attract potential players to the gaming device. The videos may also be customized for or to provide any appropriate information.

[0061] In one embodiment, the gaming machine may include a player or other sensor, such as a camera in communication with the processor (and possibly controlled by the processor) that is selectively positioned to acquire an image of a player actively using the gaming device and/or the surrounding area of the gaming device. In one embodiment, the camera may be configured to selectively acquire still or moving (e.g., video) images and may be configured to acquire the images in either an analog, digital or other suitable format. The display devices may be configured to display the image acquired by the camera as well as display the visible manifestation of the game in split screen or picture-in-picture fashion. For example, the camera may acquire an image of the player and that image can be incorporated into the primary and/or secondary game as a game image, symbol or indicia.

[0062] Suitable gaming devices may incorporate any suitable wagering primary or base game. The gaming machine or device of embodiments of the present invention may include some or all of the features of conventional gaming machines or devices. The primary or base game may comprise any suitable reel-type game, card game, number game or other game of chance susceptible to representation in an electronic or electromechanical form which produces a random outcome based on probability data upon activation from a wager. That is, different primary wagering games, such as video poker games, video blackjack games, video Keno, video bingo or any other suitable primary or base game may be implemented into an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] In one embodiment, a base or primary game may be a slot game with one or more pay lines 52. The pay lines may be horizontal, vertical, circular, diagonal, angled or any combination thereof. In this embodiment, the gaming device displays at least one and preferably a plurality of reels 54, for example, having three to five reels 54 in either electromechanical form with mechanical rotating reels or video form with simulated reels and movement thereof. In one embodiment, an electromechanical slot machine includes a plurality of adjacent, rotatable wheels which may be combined and operably coupled with an electronic display of any suitable type. In another embodiment, if the reels 54 are in video form, the plurality of simulated video reels 54 are displayed on one or more of the display devices as described above. Each reel 54 displays a plurality of indicia such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars or other images which may generally correspond to a theme associated with the gaming device. In this embodiment, the gaming device awards prizes when the reels of the primary game stop spinning if specified types and/or configurations of indicia or symbols occur on an active pay line or otherwise occur in a winning pattern.

[0064] In one embodiment, in addition to winning credits in a base or primary game, the gaming device may also give players the opportunity to win credits in a bonus or secondary game or bonus or secondary round. The bonus or secondary game enables the player to obtain a prize or payout in addition to the prize or payout, if any, obtained from the base or primary game. In general, a bonus or secondary game produces a significantly higher level of player excitement than the base or primary game because it provides a greater expectation of winning than the base or primary game and is accompanied with more attractive or unusual features than the base or primary game.

[0065] In one embodiment, the bonus or secondary game may be any type of suitable game, either similar to or completely different from the base or primary game. In one embodiment, the gaming device includes a program which will automatically begin a bonus round when the player has achieved a triggering event or qualifying condition in the base or primary game. In one embodiment, the triggering event or qualifying condition may be a selected outcome in the primary game or a particular arrangement of one or more indicia on a display device in the primary game, such as the number seven appearing on three adjacent reels along a pay line in the primary slot game embodiment seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In another embodiment, the triggering event or qualifying condition may be by exceeding a certain amount of game play (number of games, number of credits, amount of time), reaching a specified number of points earned during game play or as a random award.

[0066] In one embodiment, once a player has qualified for a bonus game, the player may subsequently enhance his/her bonus game participation through continued play on the base or primary game. Thus, for each bonus qualifying event, such as a bonus symbol, that the player obtains, a given number of bonus game wagering points or credits may be accumulated in a “bonus meter” programmed to accrue the bonus wagering credits or entries toward eventual participation in a bonus game. The occurrence of multiple such bonus qualifying events in the primary game may result in an arithmetic or geometric increase in the number of bonus wagering credits awarded. In one embodiment, extra bonus wagering credits may be redeemed during the bonus game to extend play of the bonus game.

[0067] In one embodiment, no separate entry fee or buy in for a bonus game need be employed. That is, a player may not purchase an entry into a bonus game; he must win or earn entry through play of the primary game and, thus, play of the primary game is encouraged. In another embodiment, qualification of the bonus or secondary game could be accomplished through a simple “buy in” by the player if, for example, the player has been unsuccessful at qualifying through other specified activities.

[0068] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, one or more of the gaming devices 10 of embodiments of the present invention may be connected to each other through a data network or a remote communication link 58 with some or all of the functions of each gaming device provided at a central location such as a central server or central controller 56. More specifically, the processor of each gaming device may be designed to facilitate transmission of signals between the individual gaming device and the central server or controller.

[0069] In one embodiment, the game outcome provided to the player is determined by a central server or controller and provided to the player at the gaming device of an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, each of a plurality of such gaming devices is in communication with the central server or controller. Upon a player initiating game play at one of the gaming devices, the initiated gaming device communicates a game outcome request to the central server or controller.

[0070] In one embodiment, the central server or controller receives the game outcome request and randomly generates a game outcome for the primary game based on probability data. In exemplary embodiments, the game processor will call a random number generator (or a psudorandom number generator) function which is well-known in the art such as blum blum shub, the blum-micali algorithm, the complementary-multiply-with-carry, the counter-based random number generator, the inverse congruential generator, or any other known or discovered random number generator functions to return a number for each of the reels. This random number will determine which is the “stop position” for a particular reel and hence what position on each reel should be the first or last to be visible and the specifics of the particular slot game will determine how many other symbols on that reel to then display. In some embodiments, the returned number and hence stop position indicates the position on the top symbol to be displayed; in others, it indicates the last symbol position to be displayed. In another embodiment, the central server or controller randomly generates a game outcome for the secondary game based on probability data. In another embodiment, the central server or controller randomly generates a game outcome for both the primary game and the secondary game based on probability data. In this embodiment, the central server or controller is capable of storing and utilizing program code or other data similar to the processor and memory device of the gaming device.

[0071] In an alternative embodiment, the central server or controller maintains one or more predetermined pools or sets of predetermined game outcomes. In this embodiment, the central server or controller receives the game outcome request and independently selects a predetermined game outcome from a set or pool of game outcomes. The central server or controller flags or marks the selected game outcome as used. Once a game outcome is flagged as used, it is prevented from further selection from the set or pool and cannot be selected by the central controller or server upon another wager. The provided game outcome can include a primary game outcome, a secondary game outcome, primary and secondary game outcomes, or a series of game outcomes such as free games.

[0072] The central server or controller communicates the generated or selected game outcome to the initiated gaming device. The gaming device receives the generated or selected game outcome and provides the game outcome to the player. In an alternative embodiment, how the generated or selected game outcome is to be presented or displayed to the player, such as a reel symbol combination of a slot machine or a hand of cards dealt in a card game, is also determined by the central server or controller and communicated to the initiated gaming device to be presented or displayed to the player. Central production or control can assist a gaming establishment or other entity in maintaining appropriate records, controlling gaming, reducing and preventing cheating or electronic or other errors, reducing or eliminating win-loss volatility and the like.

[0073] In another embodiment, one or more of the gaming devices are in communication with a central server or controller for monitoring purposes only. That is, each individual gaming device randomly generates the game outcomes to be provided to the player and the central server or controller monitors the activities and events occurring on the plurality of gaming devices. In one embodiment, the gaming network includes a real-time or on-line accounting and gaming information system operably coupled to the central server or controller. The accounting and gaming information system of this embodiment includes a player database for storing player profiles, a player tracking module for tracking players and a credit system for providing automated casino transactions.

[0074] A plurality of the gaming devices are capable of being connected together through a data network. In one embodiment, the data network is a local area network (LAN), in which one or more of the gaming devices are substantially proximate to each other and an on-site central server or controller as in, for example, a gaming establishment or a portion of a gaming establishment. In another embodiment, the data network is a wide area network (WAN) in which one or more of the gaming devices are in communication with at least one off-site central server or controller. In this embodiment, the plurality of gaming devices may be located in a different part of the gaming establishment or within a different gaming establishment than the off-site central server or controller. Thus, the WAN may include an off-site central server or controller and an off-site gaming device located within gaming establishments in the same geographic area, such as a city or state. The WAN gaming system may be substantially identical to the LAN gaming system described above, although the number of gaming devices in each system may vary relative to each other.

[0075] In another embodiment, the data network is a global computer network, such as the Internet, or an intranet network, and the gaming system may be considered an online system, a mobile system, or the like. In this embodiment, the operation of the gaming device can be viewed at the gaming device with at least one web browser, or application, such that access to the data network is feasible. In this embodiment, operation of the gaming device and accumulation of credits may be accomplished with a connection to the central server or controller through a conventional phone or other data transmission line, digital signal line (DSL), T-1 line, coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, or other suitable connection. In this embodiment, players may access a game page from any location where a network connection and computer, or other gaming device 10, are available. For example, either of the gaming devices of FIGS. 1C and 1D is suitable for accessing such a data network.

[0076] The expansion in the number of computers and number and speed of internet connections in recent years increases opportunities for players to play from an ever-increasing number of remote sites. It should be appreciated that enhanced bandwidth of digital wireless communications may render such technology suitable for some or all communications according to some embodiments of the present invention, particularly if such communications are encrypted. Higher data transmission speeds may be useful for enhancing the sophistication and response of the display and interaction with the player.

[0077] In another embodiment, a plurality of gaming devices at one or more gaming sites may be networked to a central server in a progressive configuration, wherein a portion of each wager to initiate a base or primary game may be allocated to bonus or secondary event awards. In one embodiment, a host site computer is coupled to a plurality of the central servers at a variety of mutually remote gaming sites for providing a multi-site linked progressive automated gaming system. In one embodiment, a host site computer may serve gaming devices distributed throughout a number of properties at different geographical locations including, for example, different locations within a city or different cities within a state.

[0078] In one embodiment, the host site computer is maintained for the overall operation and control of the system. In this embodiment, a host site computer oversees the entire progressive gaming system and is the master for computing all progressive jackpots. All participating gaming sites report to, and receive information from, the host site computer. Each central server computer is responsible for all data communication between the gaming device hardware and software and the host site computer.

[0079] In some embodiments, the data network may be integrated into an existing network platform, for example, a social networking site. For example, in one embodiment, the data network may comprise an application within a social networking site, e.g., Facebook, whereby players may access the data network via a connection to the social networking site. Such an integrated arrangement may be advantageous for applications of embodiments of the present invention that seek to have near immediate access to a significant potential customer base.

[0080] In further embodiments, the data network may be accessed via a downloadable application to a mobile device, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a mobile computer, or the like. As in known in the mobile device industry, such a downloadable application may be stored at a remote server, and upon request, a player may utilize a mobile device to download such downloadable application to be stored locally on the mobile device. Such downloadable application may access the data network through the mobile device's network connection, and provide the player a convenient means through which to access the data network. In alternative embodiments, the downloadable application may not require a network connection on a regular basis, and a game may be accessible locally on the mobile device. However, in such embodiments, some of the benefits of networked game play, such as competitions, updates, etc., may not be available until the mobile device reconnects to the data network.

[0081] Referring now to FIG. 3A, an exemplary screen shot of a display of a gaming device is shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the display includes a 5-column by 4-row symbol matrix, as shown on the slot reels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and 54e. The first column 54a, second column 54b, third column 54c, fourth column 54d and fifth column 54e all hold four symbols. Each of the slot reels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and 54e includes a plurality of symbol positions. Alternatively, the game could utilize any number of columns and reels, such as a 5-column by 5-row symbol matrix. The symbol positions are the positions or areas on the reels where symbols are located and displayed to a player. For example, symbol position (3/2) refers to the third reel (i.e., reel 54c) and the second position or area on that reel (i.e., the position including the B symbol).

[0082] In this exemplary embodiment, the reels 54 include a plurality of symbols 100 which are the letters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I. It should be appreciated that the reels may include any suitable symbols, characters or images as desired by the game designer. In one embodiment, each of the symbol positions on the reels includes a predetermined or designated symbol from the plurality of symbols. In another embodiment, each of the symbol positions on the reels includes a randomly determined symbol from the plurality of symbols, based on an algorithmic formula and distribution of symbols.

[0083] In some embodiments, the symbols 100 may optionally include wild symbol 102, for example, as disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 7,758,414, and incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In addition, certain features of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/221,658 are related to features of embodiments of the present invention, and the disclosure of such reference is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0084] In other embodiments, the symbols 100 may optionally include at least one split symbol or replicator symbol 104 or 106, for example, as disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 7,402,102, and incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Each replicator symbol includes at least two symbols from the plurality of symbols at a single symbol position on the reels. For example, replicator symbol 102 includes two “C” symbols in one symbol position (4/3) on reel 54d. Similarly, replicator symbol 104 includes three “F” symbols at a single symbol position (2/3) on reel 54b. In this embodiment, each replicator symbol includes at least two of the same symbols or identical symbols at a single symbol position. In another embodiment, the replicator symbols include at least two symbols from the plurality of symbols where at least one of the symbols associated with the replicator symbol is different. The replicator symbols provide additional symbols on the reels and therefore enhance the probability that a winning symbol combination or combinations will occur on the reels. In one embodiment, the gaming device provides an outcome such as one or more awards, prizes, credits, free spins, free games, game elements or any other suitable award to a player when a designated symbol combination including at least two of the symbols is indicated in at least one of the symbol positions on the reels 54.

[0085] In one embodiment a plurality of pay lines such as pay lines 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d are associated with the reels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and 54e. In one embodiment, the gaming device provides an outcome to the player when a designated combination of symbols such as a winning combination of symbols is indicated in symbol position on one of the pay lines 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d. In another embodiment, the gaming device provides the outcome to the player when the winning symbol combination is indicated in symbol position on a plurality of the pay lines. In a further embodiment, the gaming device provides the outcome to the player when a winning symbol combination is indicated in symbol position on any of the pay lines associated with the reels. It should be appreciated that a designated combination of symbols or a winning symbol combination may be a line pay, a line scatter pay, a reel scatter pay or any suitable winning combination of the symbols.

[0086] FIG. 3A additionally shows a set of exemplary meters used to display the salient information for the game, including, Number of Pay Lines 106, Bet Per Pay line 108, Total Bet 110, Paid 112 and Credit 114. The Credit meter 114 displays the total number credits remaining in the credit pool. The Number of Pay Lines meter 106 is associated with the Select Pay Lines button and displays the current number of Pay Lines Selected. The Bet Per Line 108 meter is associated with the Bet Per Line button and displays the number of credits wagered per pay line. The Total Bet 110 meter displays the cumulative value of the Number of Pay Lines 106 and Bet Per Line 108. The Paid meter 112 displays the number of credits won on the last spin.

[0087] In another embodiment, the number of credits in the credit pool is displayed by a credit meter or credit display 114. FIG. 3A also shows an exemplary number of credits in the credit pool, as displayed on the Credit meter 114 The pool of credits increases and decreases according to the player's wins or losses and may be supplemented, if necessary, by the player by additional deposits of coins, tokens or paper currency.

[0088] In yet another embodiment, the number of pay lines upon which the player wagered in a game is displayed on a Number of Pay Lines meter or display 106. More specifically, FIG. 3A shows the location of the pay lines 52a, 52b, 52c and 54d.

[0089] In one embodiment, the pay lines activate in a predetermined order, as follows: the first wager is applied to pay line 52a; the second wager is applied to pay line 52b; the third wager is applied to pay line 52c; and the fourth wager is applied to pay line 52d. However, the games may have fewer or greater than four pay lines and activate the pay lines in any suitable order.

[0090] Returning to FIG. 3A, an exemplary number of credits wagered on each pay line is provided, as displayed on the Bet Per Line meter 108. Usually the same amount is wagered on each pay line. Alternatively, however, the player could be allowed to make wagers of different amounts on each pay line. The total amount wagered is determined by summing the amounts wagered on each pay line. FIG. 3A also shows the total number of credits bet on all of the pay lines, as displayed on the Total Bet meter 110. The total bet is calculated by multiplying Number of Pay Lines 106 by Bet Per Line 108.

[0091] In an additional embodiment, all winning combinations are defined by pay tables or award summary tables associated with a game, for example, as shown in FIG. 3B. The pay tables define the winning symbol combinations for a game such as a winning symbol combination including three or more of the same symbols on a pay line. Each symbol in a symbol position counts towards the total number of symbols on a pay line. In addition, a pay table may also define scatter awards for winning symbol combinations including symbols scattered anywhere on the reels. Alternatively, any pre-determined or designated arrangement of symbols may be defined as a winning symbol combination in a game and any suitable number of awards or credits may be provided to a player for the winning symbol combinations.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 3B, the payout table or award summary table 200 indicates the winning symbol combinations 202 and the awards or credits associated with each of those winning symbol combinations 204. The award summary table 200 shows the winning symbol combinations for one of the symbols, the letter A, and the awards associated with that symbol. In this example, all of the symbols on the reels include the same winning symbol combinations and the same awards associated with those winning symbol combinations. For example, a winning symbol combination including the letter C provides the same award as a winning symbol combination including the letter A when the winning symbol combination is indicated in at least one of the symbol positions on a pay line associated with the reels. It should be appreciated that the designated symbol combinations or winning symbol combinations in the game may include any suitable combination of the same symbols or different symbols in the game. In addition, it should be appreciated that the winning symbol combinations may provide any suitable awards, prizes, free games, free spins, game elements or any other suitable award, awards or outcomes in the game.

[0093] To operate and play a game, a player may insert currency into the game and, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3A, obtains a number of credits as indicated by the credit display 114. Referring to FIG. 3A, the player begins playing the game by depressing the select pay lines button to increase the number of pay lines wagered in the game from one to three as indicated by the number of pay lines display 106. In this example, there are four pay lines 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d associated with the reels 54. Therefore, the player has wagered on the maximum number of pay lines in the game.

[0094] Next, the player presses the bet per pay line button to increase their bet or wager on each pay line from one to three credits as indicated by the bet per pay line display 108. Therefore, the player is wagering three credits on each of the pay lines 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d. Based on the wager made by the player in this spin or activation of the reels in the game, the player has wagered a total bet or wager of twelve as indicated by the total bet display 110. The total bet equals the number of pay lines wagered on by the player of four multiplied by the amount bet per pay line by the player, which is three. Because the game has not started yet the pay display indicates a zero or that the player has not received any awards or credits in the game. The total bet of twelve made by the player in this activation or spin of the reels is subtracted from the player's total credits in the game of four hundred which results in the new total number of credits being three hundred eighty-eight as indicated by the credit display 114.

[0095] FIGS. 4A-4D depict an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In exemplary embodiments, a play matrix 400 is presented and additional play matrixes are unlocked or available for wins for the player based on the outcome of the initial play matrix. In these exemplary embodiments, the overall play matrix can be seen as expanding as there are increased symbol positions in the play matrix for the player to receive a win. For example, and in some embodiments, one or more rows 400 may be presented. Generally, a win on one row may unlock a next row. In some embodiments, all the symbols must be the same for the game to be a win and an award issued to the player. In some embodiments, a win may be a combination of winning symbols set by an administrator, game designer, or the like. In some embodiments, the number of positions in a row may increase for each level of rows. For example, FIG. 4A depicts a first row 400a. If the combination of symbols generated or presented in the first row 400a is a winning combination of symbols, a second row 400b is unlocked.

[0096] A winning combination of symbols in the first row 400a may unlock the second row 400b and may include two of the same symbol, as depicted in FIG. 4A. In other embodiments, a winning combination of symbols in the first row 400a may comprise a predetermined set of symbols defined as a winning combination. For example, two symbols having the same suit may be defined as a winning combination, or the like.

[0097] In exemplary embodiments, if a winning combination of symbols is present in the first row 400a, a second row is unlocked 400b. An example second row 400b is depicted in FIG. 4B. The reels of the second row 400b may be spun, or the like, to determine if a second winning combination exists in addition to the first winning combination found in the first row 400a. If the second row 400b generates a second winning combination, the player may be awarded a bonus/reward or a third row 400c may be unlocked. A winning combination in any of the rows 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d, or the like may unlock an additional row and may comprise any winning symbol combination suitable for embodiments of the present invention, including the same symbol in each row position, or the like. A third row 400c may be unlocked by a winning combination of symbols in the second row 400b.

[0098] An exemplary third row 400c is depicted in FIG. 4C. In some embodiments, if a winning combination of symbols is present in the third row 400c, a bonus may be awarded to the player and/or a fourth row 400d may be unlocked. If a winning combination of symbols is present in the fourth row 400d, an additional award may be awarded to the player and/or an additional row may be unlocked. In some embodiments, the same award or type of award may be awarded for each winning row that unlocks another row. In some embodiments a player may be awarded a comparatively smaller award after a winning combination in the first row 400a when compared with the award after a winning combination in the second, third, and fourth rows, or the like. In some embodiments, an award to be awarded may be progressively higher for each row unlocked.

[0099] In some embodiments, the rewards may escalate or become larger and/or more valuable when the player reaches certain rows. For example, the second row 400b may generate a greater reward for the player than the first row 400a when a winning combination is displayed. In some embodiments, the number of symbol positions may increase in each row, every other row, or the like. In the example depicted, the first row 400a includes two symbols, the second row 400b includes three symbols, the third row 400c includes four symbols, and the fourth row 400d includes five symbols. A winning combination of symbols in each row may unlock another row, two additional rows, and/or the like. Although the first row is depicted as the lowermost row in FIG. 4C, alternative rows may be designated as the first row. For example, a top row may be designated the first row, a central row may be designated as the first row, and/or the like. Further, the increased play matrix, here presented as successive “rows,” can be imagined in any configuration whether horizontal, vertical, diagonal, connected, or merely in predetermined locations in the symbol matrix.

[0100] Generally, in exemplary embodiments, if symbols in the rows are the same or include a winning symbol combination, a new row is unlocked for a new spin. In some such embodiments, an additional wager is required to play the subsequent spin and in other such embodiments, no additional wager is needed. It should be appreciated that in these embodiments, the reels/symbols in the already displayed portion can be fixed for the subsequent spin or re-spun along with the newly larger displayed area and can add further variability to the subsequent spins.

[0101] In some embodiments, a single spin determines the stop positions for each reel and when additional rows are unlocked, the additional rows displayed have already been determined by the game machine.

[0102] In another embodiment, the number of symbol positions in each row to be unlocked increases when the player unlocks further rows. Each row comprises one or more pay lines. The pay line corresponding to each award may comprise a multiplier for win evaluation, or the like. Any outcomes obtained by the player may be modified by a multiplier associated with winning symbol combinations of the rows, or the like.

[0103] In exemplary embodiments, reels 54 may include a plurality of symbols 100 which may include the letters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I, for example. It should be appreciated that the reels may include any suitable symbols, characters or images as desired by the game designer.

[0104] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the display includes a 5-column by 4-row symbol matrix, as shown on the slot reels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and 54e. Each column holds four symbols. In FIG. 4A, a first row 400a is unlocked for spinning the reels. The rest of the symbol positions in the display are not relevant for determining whether another row can be unlocked for a new spin. The first row 400a comprises two symbol positions 4/4 and 5/4. Each row may comprise a number of symbol positions equal to the total number of reels or, alternatively, a number of symbol positions less than the number of reels. In the example depicted in FIGS. 4A-4D, the rows may comprise between 2-5 symbol positions. In some embodiments, all rows may comprise the same number of symbol positions and the number of symbol positions may vary by row. For example, each row may comprise 2, 3, 4, or 5 symbol positions, or the like.

[0105] Some embodiments of the present disclosure may provide players opportunities to win credits, or the like, with the rows in a base or primary game. Another embodiment may give players opportunities to win credits with the rows in a bonus or secondary game to obtain a prize or payout in addition to the prize or payout.

[0106] In some embodiments, a gaming device or player may press or activate a play button 34 or pull arm 32 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) to activate or spin the reels for the first time in the game. The reels may stop and display a plurality of symbols in the symbol positions on the reels 54. In some embodiments, only the symbols in the first row 400a are unlocked, and the win or bonus evaluation is determined only through these unlocked symbol positions. In the example depicted, the symbol “A” appears in the first row 400a and achieves the winning symbol combination of A-A. Since all the symbols in the first row 400a are the same (and a winning symbol combination of A-A is achieved), a second row 400b, which is above the first row 400a, may be unlocked for a new spin.

[0107] Next, upon the unlocking of the second row 400b, the player once again presses or activates play button 34 or pull arm 32 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) to activate or spin the second row, or the spin is completed automatically upon unlocking the second row 400b. The reels may then stop and display a plurality of symbols in the symbol positions in the second row 400b. FIG. 4B shows the second row 400b as unlocked after attaining the winning symbol combination in the first row 400a. The second row may comprise 3 symbol positions, namely, symbol positions 3/3, 4/3 and 5/3. It should be appreciated that the number of rows in any subsequent unlocked row can be increased by any number. If, upon spinning, the same symbol appears in the three symbol positions in the second row 400b or a winning symbol combination is generated, a third row 400c in a row above will unlock for a new spin.

[0108] As depicted in FIG. 4B, the symbol “A” appears in all three symbol positions in the second row 400b. A winning combination of A-A-A is achieved in the second row 400b. Alternatively, the winning combination can also be attained if one or more symbols in the rows is a predetermined combination of symbols, a replicator or split symbol, or the like. In exemplary embodiments, the game continues, a player once again may press or activate a play button 34 or pull arm 32 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) to activate or spin the reels of the third row 400c, or the spin may be completed automatically upon the unlocking of the third row 400c. The reels may stop and display a plurality of symbols in the symbol positions. FIG. 4C shows a third row 400c after being unlocked by the winning symbol combination A-A-A in the second row 400b below. A third row 400c may include 4 symbol positions, namely, symbol positions 2/2, 3/2, 4/2 and 5/2. If, upon spinning, the same symbol appears in all four symbol positions in the third row or a winning combination of symbols is generated, a fourth row 400d may unlock for a new spin. In FIG. 4C, the symbol “A” appears in all four symbol positions in the third row 400c. The winning combination of A-A-A-A in the third row 400c is thereby achieved. In exemplary embodiments, the player may press or activate play button 34 or pull arm 32 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) to activate or spin the fourth row, or the reels of fourth row 400d may be spun automatically when the third row 400c generates a winning symbol combination. The reels may stop and display a plurality of symbols in the symbol positions of the fourth reel 400d. FIG. 4D shows the fourth row 400d as it is unlocked after attaining the winning symbol combination A-A-A-A in the third row 400c below.

[0109] In exemplary embodiments, the fourth row 400d may comprise 5 symbol positions, or the like, namely, symbol positions 1/1, 2/1, 3/1, 4/1 and 5/1. If, upon spinning, the same symbol or a winning symbol combination appears in all five symbol positions of the fourth row 400d, a bonus or reward may be awarded, or the like. In FIG. 4D, the symbol “A” appears in all five rows in the fourth row 400d. The winning combination of A-A-A-A-A is achieved and a bonus or reward is awarded.

[0110] In some embodiments, games may have fewer or greater than four rows of rows for unlocking. A multiplier associated with each row may be assigned at any predetermined value. The order of rows of the progressing rows of rows may be unlocked in any suitable order. For example, the first can be in row 52a, and each successive row to be unlocked in the downward position, or the like.

[0111] It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the present invention are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) of the invention without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the invention. For example, an element disclosed by one embodiment of the present invention may be included in any other disclosed embodiment, where suitable. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and the present invention.