Electronic gaming machine and method

The present invention provides an electronic gaming machine comprising a display for displaying game symbols for playing a game of chance on a plurality of reels. An electronic game controller assigns a number of special symbols to one or more reel strips associated with the reels, the number of special symbols being variable and dependent on a first bet value selected by a player. The appearance of at least two special symbols causes the electronic game controller to activate a bonus game of chance comprising the award of at least one the bonus prize in response to a predetermined outcome of the bonus game of chance. A gaming method is also provided.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to an electronic gaming machine and in a particular an electronic gaming machine having a base game and a jackpot-type game. The invention has been developed primarily for use as an electronic gaming machine and will be described hereinafter by reference to this application.

The following discussion of the prior art is intended to present the invention in an appropriate technical context and allow its advantages to be properly appreciated. Unless clearly indicated to the contrary, however, reference to any prior art in this specification should not be construed as an express or implied admission that such art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

Conventional gaming machines typically involve awarding prizes to a player according to predetermined combinations of game symbols that appear on an array of game squares displayed on a screen, typically organised into three rows and five columns (a 5×3 array). Other arrays, such as a 3×3 or 4×3, may be used. Each gaming machine randomly selects the game symbols that appear on the array, each column of the array being a “reel”.

In an electronic gaming machine, the mechanical reels are replaced with video images of the reels, which are displayed on a video display screen. The electronic gaming machine has an internal electronic game controller, typically a computer, computational processor or other central processing unit, that controls the display of images on the video display screen so that the reels are visibly spun on the screen to simulate a physical reel of a traditional gaming machine. Electronic gaming machines are also more versatile in presenting game information, varying the probabilities for a player to win a prize and varying the type of game that is played.

Bonus or “feature” games may also be provided by an electronic gaming machine in addition to a base or main game. Typically feature games use the same set of reels as the main game and are limited to a set of free games operated under a single set of rules. This means that the feature game is restricted by the same set of rules, and so there is no variation in the play of the feature game.

Also, electronic gaming machines can offer one or more bonus prizes to the player during play of the game. The most common type of bonus prize that is awarded by the electronic gaming machine is a jackpot prize, the main example of which is a progressive jackpot prize.

This standard structure to game play and bonus prizes limits the variation in the play of the electronic gaming machine. Consequently, it is difficult to retain player interest because there is no apparent incentive for the player to continue playing the same electronic gaming machine once the player becomes familiar with the feature game, the main game and any bonus prizes. Also, it is difficult to retain player interest since there is little differentiation between gaming machines in terms of the main and feature games that are played.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome or substantially ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of prior art, or at least to provide a useful alternative. It is an object of the invention in at least one preferred embodiment to provide an electronic gaming machine and a gaming method for an electronic gaming machine that encourages player interest.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electronic gaming machine comprising:

a display for displaying game symbols for playing a game of chance, wherein said game of chance comprises randomly displaying said game symbols in a plurality of reels and awarding prizes to a player for predetermined winning combinations of game symbols appearing on said reels; and

an electronic game controller in electronic communication with said display for controlling the appearance of said game symbols in said game of chance on the display;

wherein said electronic game controller assigns a number of special symbols to one or more reel strips associated with said reels, said number of special symbols being variable and dependent on a first bet value selected by said player; and

wherein the appearance of at least two special symbols in said game of chance causes said electronic game controller to activate a bonus game of chance comprising the award of at least one said bonus prize by said electronic game controller in response to a predetermined outcome of said bonus game.

Preferably, there is a plurality of selectable bet options selectable by said player, said selectable bet options corresponding to different first bet values, and the probability of activating said bonus game of chance increases proportionally between two of said selectable bet options.

Preferably, each said selectable bet option is associated with a pay table for determining the values of prizes awarded in response to said predetermined winning combinations of game symbols, a value for at least one prize in the pay table of one selectable bet option being greater than the value for said at least one prize in the pay table of another selectable bet option. In one embodiment, a value for at least one prize in the pay table of one said selectable bet option is a linear increase of the value for said at least one prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option. In another embodiment, a value for at least one prize in the pay table of one said selectable bet option is a non-linear increase of the value for said at least one prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option.

Preferably, said at least one prize comprises each of the prizes in the pay tables of one said selectable bet option and said another selectable bet option. That is, the value for each prize in the pay table of said one selectable bet option is greater than the value for the same prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option. In one embodiment, the value for each prize in the pay table of said one selectable bet option is a linear increase of the value for the same prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option. In a further embodiment, the value for each prize in the pay table of said one selectable bet option is a non-linear increase of the value for the same prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option.

Preferably, said electronic game controller causes a meter to be shown on said display, said meter indicating a number associated with a total number of said special symbols currently assigned to said reel strips.

Preferably, said electronic game controller causes a dynamic graphical image to be shown on said display, said dynamic graphical image indicating the probability of activating said bonus game of chance.

Preferably, said electronic game controller awards a multiplier that increases the value of said prizes in response to the appearance of a multiplier symbol, said multiplier symbol being randomly selected from a range of multiplier symbols having different multiplier values, and said range of multiplier symbols being dependent on a second bet value selected by said player. More preferably, said second bet value is different to said first bet value. In one embodiment, said first bet value and said second bet value are combined to represent the total bet made by said player. In another embodiment, said multiplier values of said multiplier symbols in said range increase as the selected second bet value increases.

Preferably, said special symbols comprise trigger symbols for triggering a feature game of chance. More preferably, said special symbols comprise scatter symbols.

Preferably, one or more jackpot meters are shown on said display, said one or more jackpot meters being associated with the award of one or more jackpots. More preferably, at least one jackpot meter displays designated game symbols as they appear in said game of chance. In one embodiment, said at least one jackpot meter comprises an jackpot meter array of symbol positions, wherein said designated game symbols are displayed in the symbol positions of said jackpot meter array.

Preferably, said bonus game of chance is associated with said one or more jackpot meters, said bonus game of chance comprises a bonus array of selectable symbol positions, wherein selection of a symbol position by said player reveals a game symbol or said designated game symbol and said at least one jackpot meter increases for each revealed designated game symbol. More preferably, said at least one jackpot meter increases by displaying said revealed designated game symbol in a symbol position of said jackpot meter array. In one embodiment, the jackpot associated with said at least one jackpot meter is awarded when said at least one jackpot meter displays said designated game symbol in each symbol position of said jackpot meter array.

Preferably, at least two of said jackpot meters have different bonus prizes. In one embodiment, said different bonus prizes award monetary prizes of different values.

Preferably, there is also a feature game of chance that is activated by a trigger event in said game of chance. More preferably, said feature game of chance is played prior to playing the bonus game of chance. In one embodiment, said electronic game controller causes the display of a graphical image or message advising that said bonus game of chance would be played after completion of said feature game of chance.

In one embodiment, said feature game of chance is activated by the appearance of said at least two special symbols in said game of chance. In another embodiment, said trigger event comprises a random event determined by said electronic game controller at the start of play of said game of chance. In a further embodiment, the trigger event comprises the appearance of at least one trigger symbol in said game of chance. In another alternative, the trigger event comprises an in-game event during play of the said game of chance.

Preferably, said feature game of chance comprises displaying randomly selected game symbols in an array of symbol positions and where prizes are awarded to a player for predetermined winning combinations of game symbols appearing on said array, wherein said prizes are of increased value compared to said prizes awarded in said game of chance. More preferably, said feature game of chance comprises one or more additional game symbols exclusive to said feature game of chance, one of said exclusive game symbols conferring a game enhancing element upon said player.

Preferably, said game enhancing element modifies the result of a play of said game. In some embodiments, said game enhancing element comprises at least one or more of a predetermined number of free games, bonus prizes, collector symbols, a win multiplier, wild multipliers, bonus wilds, symbols that cause the award of additional free games, trigger symbols to retrigger the selected wheel or enhanced wheel, directly retriggering the selected wheel or enhanced wheel, held columns, random wild symbols, progressives, bonus credits, jackpot symbols, and one or more symbol replacements.

Preferably, said reels are organised into an array having a polygonal shape. For example, said array can take any one of a rectangular, square, triangular, pentagonal, octagonal or non-rectangular polygonal shape. In one embodiment, said array is the industry standard 5×3 array of rows and columns. In another embodiment, said array can be irregular in shape, such as for example having an unequal number of rows or columns.

Preferably, the player selectively starts and/or stops play of said reels in said game of chance array and/or said reels in said feature game of chance.

Preferably, said electronic gaming machine comprises a housing having said display and containing said electronic game controller.

Preferably, said electronic gaming machine comprises an input device. It is also preferred that said input device comprises one or more buttons on said housing, said buttons being in electronic communication with said electronic game controller to transmit player commands to said electronic game controller. More preferably, said buttons are arranged on a console of said housing. Alternatively or additionally, said input device comprises a touch sensitive surface on said display for receiving player commands, said touch sensitive surface being in electronic communication with said electronic game controller to transmit player commands to said electronic game controller.

Preferably, said electronic gaming machine comprises a value transfer mechanism for paying said prizes to said player using value in an amount equal to an awarded prize. Alternatively or additionally, said value transfer mechanism also receives value from said player to initiate said bet. More preferably, said value transfer mechanism is in electronic communication with said electronic game controller. It is also preferred that said value transfer mechanism is provided on said housing. In one embodiment, said value transfer mechanism comprises one or more vending slots for paying and/or receiving value. In other embodiments, said value transfer mechanism comprises a value input/value output device. In further embodiments, said value transfer mechanism comprises a coin slot or acceptor, a paper currency acceptor, a ticket reader and/or printer or a card reader and/or writer.

Throughout the specification and unless explicitly stated otherwise, the term “value” means credits, gaming tokens, coins, paper, currency, tickets, vouchers, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, memory devices capable of storing value and any other object representative of value.

Preferably, the electronic gaming machine comprises a mobile electronic gaming device. More preferably, said mobile electronic gaming device comprises a handheld electronic device. In one embodiment, said handheld electronic device comprises a handheld electronic gaming device or a smart phone. Alternatively, said electronic gaming machine comprises a computer. More preferably, said computer is connected to a communication network.

A second aspect of the present invention provides an electronic gaming machine comprising:

a display for displaying game symbols for playing a game of chance, said game of chance comprising randomly displaying said game symbols in a plurality of reels and awarding prizes to a player for predetermined winning combinations of game symbols appearing on said reels;

an electronic game controller in electronic communication with said display for controlling the appearance of game symbols in said game of chance on the display; and

a value transfer mechanism for receiving value from a player to make a bet and initiate play of said game of chance on said display;

wherein said electronic game controller in response to said player making said bet via said value transfer mechanism commences play of said game of chance;

wherein said electronic game controller assigns a number of special symbols to one or more reel strips associated with said reels, said number of special symbols being variable and depending on a first bet value selected by said player; and

wherein the appearance of at least two special symbols in said game of chance causes said electronic game controller to activate a bonus game of chance comprising the award of at least one said bonus prize by said electronic game controller in response to a predetermined outcome of said bonus game.

This aspect of the invention preferably has the preferred features of the first aspect of the invention stated above, where applicable.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a gaming method for an electronic gaming machine comprising a display and an electronic game controller, comprising:

controllably displaying game symbols on said display to play a game of chance, wherein said game of chance comprises randomly displaying said game symbols in a plurality of reels and awarding prizes to a player for predetermined winning combinations of game symbols appearing on said reels;

assigning a number of special symbols to one or more reel strips associated with said reels, said number of special symbols being variable and dependent on a first bet value selected by said player; and

in response to the appearance of at least two special symbols in said game of chance, activating a bonus game of chance comprising the award of at least one said bonus prize in response to a predetermined outcome of said bonus game.

Preferably, said method comprises associating each said selectable bet option with a pay table for determining the values of prizes awarded in response to said predetermined winning combinations of game symbols and configuring said pay tables so that a value for at least one prize in the pay table of one selectable bet option is greater than the value for said at least one prize in the pay table of another selectable bet option. In one embodiment, said configuring step comprises making a value for at least one prize in the pay table of one said selectable bet option a linear increase of the value for said at least one prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option. In another embodiment, said configuring step comprises making a value for at least one prize in the pay table of one said selectable bet option a non-linear increase of the value for said at least one prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option.

Preferably, said configuring step comprises configuring said pay tables so that the value for each prize in the pay table of said one selectable bet option is greater than the value for the same prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option. In one embodiment, said configuring step comprises making the value for each prize in the pay table of said one selectable bet option a linear increase of the value for the same prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option. In a further embodiment, said configuring step comprises making the value for each prize in the pay table of said one selectable bet option a non-linear increase of the value for the same prize in the pay table of said another selectable bet option.

Preferably, said method further comprises said electronic game controller causing a meter to be shown on said display, said meter indicating a number associated with a total number of said special symbols currently assigned to said reel strips.

Preferably, said method further comprises said electronic game controller causing a dynamic graphical image to be shown on said display, said dynamic graphical image indicating the probability of activating said bonus game of chance.

Preferably, said method further comprises said electronic game controller awarding a multiplier that increases the value of said prizes in response to the appearance of a multiplier symbol, said multiplier symbol being randomly selected from a range of multiplier symbols having different multiplier values, said range of multiplier symbols being dependent on a second bet value selected by said player. More preferably, said second bet value is different to said first bet value. In one embodiment, said first bet value and said second bet value are combined to represent the total bet made by said player. In another embodiment, said multiplier values of said multiplier symbols in said range increase as the selected second bet value increases.

Preferably, said method further comprises showing one or more jackpot meters on said display, said one or more jackpot meters being associated with the award of one or more jackpots of one or more jackpot meters associated with the award of one or more jackpots. More preferably, said method further comprises displaying designated game symbols as they appear in said game of chance in said at least one jackpot meter. In one embodiment, said at least one jackpot meter comprises a jackpot meter array of symbol positions, and said method comprises displaying said designated game symbols in the symbol positions of said jackpot meter array.

Preferably, said method comprises associating said bonus game of chance with said one or more jackpot meters, said bonus game of chance comprises a bonus array of selectable symbol positions; selecting a symbol position to reveal a game symbol or said designated game symbol; and increasing said at least one jackpot meter for each revealed designated game symbol. More preferably, said increasing step comprises displaying said revealed designated game symbol in a symbol position of said jackpot meter array. In one embodiment, the method comprises awarding the jackpot associated with said at least one jackpot meter when said at least one jackpot meter displays said designated game symbol in each symbol position of said jackpot meter array.

Preferably, said method comprises providing at least two of said jackpot meters with different bonus prizes. In one embodiment, said different bonus prizes award monetary prizes of different values.

Preferably, said method comprises activating a feature game of chance in response to a trigger event in said game of chance. More preferably, said method comprises playing said feature game of chance prior to playing the bonus game of chance. In one embodiment, said electronic game controller causes the display of a graphical image or message advising that said bonus game of chance would be played after completion of said feature game of chance.

The method of the third aspect of the invention preferably has the preferred features of the first aspect of the invention stated above, where applicable.

A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a gaming method for an electronic gaming machine comprising display for displaying a game of chance, wherein said game of chance comprises game symbols arranged into a plurality of reels and where predetermined winning combinations of randomly selected game symbols in said game award prizes to a player; an electronic game controller for controlling the display of game symbols on said display; and a value transfer mechanism for receiving value from a player to make a bet and initiate play of said game of chance, the method comprising:

said value transfer mechanism receiving value from a player to make said bet and initiate play of said game on said display;

said electronic game controller assigning a number of special symbols to one or more reel strips associated with said reels, said number of special symbols being variable and depending on a first bet value selected by said player; and

in response to the appearance of at least two special symbols in said game of chance, activating a bonus game of chance comprising the award of at least one said bonus prize in response to a predetermined outcome of said bonus game.

The method of the fourth aspect of the invention preferably has the preferred features of the third aspect of the invention stated above, where applicable.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer system comprising a central processing unit configured for communication with an electronic gaming machine, wherein said computer system is configured to perform the method of the third or fourth aspects of the invention.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer programme configured to perform the method of the third or fourth aspects of the invention.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a non-transitory carrier medium carrying computer executable code that, when executed on a central processing unit configured for communication with an electronic gaming machine, causes the central processing unit to perform the method of the third or fourth aspects of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be described with reference to the following examples which should be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive. In the Figures, corresponding features within the same embodiment or common to different embodiments have been given the same reference numerals.

Referring toFIG. 1, an electronic gaming machine1according to a first embodiment of the invention includes a cabinet2, a console3and an internal electronic game controller4. The console3has various input devices including vending slots5for receiving monetary bets and a plurality of buttons6for actuation by a player. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the vending slots5may be replaced with other types of value input/value output devices, such as a coin acceptor, a paper currency acceptor, a ticket reader and/or printer or a card reader and/or writer.

The vending slots5can be configured to receive value, such as cash in the form of banknotes and coins, or credits representing a monetary amount from a memory device, such as but not limited to a memory card, smart card, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, USB key, magnetic card or other electronic storage device. Typically, the memory device is a credit card, debit card or other card that enables the transfer of monetary credit to the electronic gaming machine1. Other forms of value include gaming tokens, paper, tickets, vouchers, and any other object representative of value.

The electronic game controller4is generally in the form of a central processing unit, such as a computer, and is in electronic communication with a display in the form of a video display screen7, as well as various input devices on the console3, as best shown inFIG. 2. Typically, the electronic game controller4also comprises a random access memory (RAM) associated with the central processing unit, the RAM being used to store programme instructions and transient data related to the operation of the electronic game controller and hence the electronic gaming machine1. The RAM contains a body of program instructions for implementing a game on the electronic gaming machine1, as discussed in more detail below. The central processing unit or processor may also be operatively associated with a further storage device, such as a hard disk drive, which is used for long-term storage of program components and data relating to the electronic game controller4and/or the electronic gaming machine1, including a database for game performance data, as well as information gathered from users. It is also appreciated that a person skilled in the art would readily understand the location and use of the electronic game controller4in the electronic gaming machine1.

The electronic game controller4will transmit and receive signals to and from each of the input devices and the display7, usually via wired connections but can include wireless modes of electronic communication, such as WLAN. In the case of the vending slots5(or with any other type of value transfer mechanism), there may be an intermediate credit verification device that examines and verifies the cash or credits received by the vending slots. Once the value (such as cash or credits) have been verified by the credit verification device, a signal is sent to the electronic game controller4, which then determines whether the minimum bet level has been reached. If so, the electronic game controller4will permits play of the game on the electronic gaming machine1. If not, the electronic game controller4will send a signal to the display7to show a message requesting further value to be added to the electronic gaming machine1.

The electronic game controller4is programmed to provide a game in the form of a base game8(as best shown inFIGS. 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A and 7A) and a feature game9(as best shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B) on a lower playing area7aof the display7of the electronic gaming machine1for play by a player. The base game8has game symbols10arranged into an array11in the form of five columns or “reels”12, as best shown inFIGS. 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A and 7A. The reels12give the visual appearance of rotating, typically by having the game symbols10move in a downward linear path along the length of each reel12. While the array11is arranged with five reels12and three rows as per the industry standard, it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that other types of arrays could be used, such as 3×3, 4×3, 5×5, 4×4, etc, including arrays having an irregular number of rows and/or columns. For example, the array11can have an unequal number of rows and/or columns, where some columns have less or more rows than other columns or where some rows have less or more columns than other rows. A more specific example would be an array having three columns with only two rows and two columns with three rows. The electronic game controller4will transmit signals to the display screen7to cause the base game8and feature game9to be played on the lower playing area7a, including showing the game symbols10, array11and other visible elements of the games.

The array11of the base game8defines predetermined symbol positions13, in which the game symbols10appear. The symbol positions13are not visually marked by boundary lines and simply provide an area for the game symbols10to appear. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the symbol positions13are defined by visible boundary lines (to define “squares” or “cells”) or other markings to define each respective area of the symbol positions or game positions.

The array11is arranged so that a player can select one or more predetermined “pay lines”14defined around the array, which correspond to combinations of the symbol or game positions13. The pay lines14correspond to the lines selected by the player and generally comprise at least one game position or symbol position13from each reel12. The number of pay lines14that can be selected by the player depends on the amount of the monetary bet for playing a game on the array11. In the base game8, predetermined winning combinations of randomly selected game symbols10result in the award of prizes to the player.

The game symbols10can include a mixture of picture symbols (such as animal symbols or playing card symbols), word symbols, scatter symbols, substitute or wild card symbols and trigger symbols. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that a substitute symbol is able to act as any other game symbol, and hence is also known as a “wild card” symbol. Likewise, those skilled in the art will readily understand that a scatter symbol is a symbol that triggers a game event or confers an award without having to appear on a player-selected pay line14. Similarly, a trigger symbol is a symbol that triggers a game event (like activating a feature game) or confers an award, where the trigger symbol may or may not have to appear in combination and may or may not have to appear on the same player-selected pay line14. In this embodiment, the game symbols10include playing card symbols10a, item-themed symbols10b(including gold tael symbol10ba, shield symbol10bband lion symbol10bc), substitute or wild card symbols in the form of temple symbol10cand prosperity symbol10d, and a scatter symbol in the form of a “Lucky Boy” symbol10e. The electronic game controller4randomly determines the appearance of the game symbols10on the array11.

The lower playing area7aof the video screen7also displays other standard game information including the amount of player credits17, the amount of the current bet wagered by the player18, the amount of wins by the player19, a message area20, a current denomination button21indicating the currently selected base bet denomination, the name24of the game “Lucky Treasure” being played and its overarching theme or brand25“Lucky Ways”. Other standard information may also include the number of pay lines available, the number of player-selected pay lines, a message area or strip associated with the denomination button21, a menu button for bringing up a menu screen (typically explaining the game rules and showing the available pay lines14).

In the base game8, the player initially makes a bet using vending slots5to initiate play of the electronic gaming machine1by building up credit to play the base game8on the electronic gaming machine. For example, the player can bet or wager monetary amounts equivalent to a particular amount of credits, depending on the bet denomination selected for the base game. Also, the player can make any additional side bets or ante-bets during play of the base game once the game has commenced to access additional features in the game, such as increasing the number of winning combinations in the game.

Typically, electronic gaming machines offer a number of preset bet options that the player can make, and these bet options can vary depending on the game or games offered on the electronic gaming machine. For example, a game on an electronic gaming machine may provide bet options of 1 credit, 2 credits, 5 credits and 10 credits per player-selected pay line14. In another example, the player may bet 1 credit, 2 credits, 5 credits and 10 credits for a preset group or combination of pay lines14, such as a group of 5 pay lines, 10 pay lines, 20 pay lines, etc. Usually, the bet option selected determines the number of pay lines14that become payable in the base game8and/or feature game9.

The electronic gaming machine1also has a default bet denomination, which is usually the bet denomination that was previously used in the preceding play of the base game8. For example, if a person had played the base game8with a bet denomination of 5¢, then this would be the default bet denomination for the player when he or she commences play of the game. Where the electronic gaming machine has not yet been played or has been started up, the default bet denomination is initially selected by the electronic game controller4. The default bet denomination can be randomly selected or chosen according to a predetermined order. Usually, the electronic game controller4will select the bet denomination with the lowest value that is available for the base game8, which would be the 1¢ bet denomination for this embodiment. The player may change the bet denomination at any time in the base game8by touching the denomination button21before or after the reels12have spun.

In this embodiment, there are five selectable bet options, named “Play 1”, “Play 2”, “Play 3”, “Play 4” and “Play 5”. Each of the selectable bet options are associated with different pay tables that are distinguished visually according to their colour. For example, Play 1 is associated with a green coloured pay table, Play 2 is associated with a blue coloured pay table, Play 3 is associated with a purple coloured pay table, Play 4 is associated with a yellow coloured pay table, and Play 5 is associated with a red coloured pay table. The Play 1 selectable bet option comprises a bet of 5 credits, the Play 2 selectable bet option comprises a bet of 10 credits, the Play 3 selectable bet option comprises a bet of 15 credits, the Play 4 selectable bet option comprises a bet of 30 credits, and the Play 5 selectable bet option comprises a bet of 60 credits in which a player may make two play the base game8. The Play 5 selectable option represents a maximum bet option corresponding to the maximum bet on each line for the maximum amount of credit.

In addition, the player also selects a Credits bet per Play option from one of 1 credit bet per Play, 2 credits bet per Play, 3 credits bet per Play, 4 credits bet per Play and 5 credits bet per Play. The selected Credits bet per Play option multiplies the selected bet option from the selectable Play 1, Play 2, Play 3, Play 4 or Play 5 bet options to make up the total or final bet made to play the base game8. For example, a player may select the combination of the Play 2 bet option and the 5 credits bet per Play option, which results in a total bet of 50 credits (the Play 2 bet option being 10 credits, which is multiplied by the 5 credits bet per Play value).

It will be appreciated that any combination of Credits bet per play and the Play 1 to Play 5 bet options is available to the player. That is, for each Play 1 to Play 5 bet option, the player can choose to bet from 1 credit bet per Play to 5 credits bet per Play. In this embodiment, the player initially chooses or selects one of the Play 1 to Play 5 bet options and then the Credits bet per Play option. However, in some embodiments, the order of selection is reversed or preset combinations of are displayed on the video screen7for selection by the player. In other embodiments, there is no Credit bet per Play option and instead the values for the selectable bet options are equivalent to the total bet or are increased to correspond to the total bet.

Once the player selects one of the selectable bet options, the colour associated with the selected bet option and its associated pay table are displayed in the backgrounds28of the lower playing area7aand the upper display area7bof the display7, as shown inFIGS. 3A to 7B. Furthermore, a message29is initially displayed in the upper area7bof the display screen7indicating the relevant pay table associated with the selected bet option has been activated, as best shown inFIGS. 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B and 7B. Thus, for the Play 1 selectable bet option, the backgrounds28of both the lower playing area7aand the upper display area7bare green, which reinforces the message29stating that the green pay table has been activated, as best shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B. Likewise, for the Play 2 selectable bet option, the backgrounds28of both the lower playing area7aand the upper display area7bare blue, which reinforces the message29stating that the blue pay table has been activated, as best shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B. For the Play 3 selectable bet option, the backgrounds28of both the lower playing area7aand the upper display area7bare purple, which reinforces the message29stating that the purple pay table has been activated, as best shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B. For the Play 4 selectable bet option, the backgrounds28of both the lower playing area7aand the upper display area7bare yellow, which reinforces the message29stating that the yellow pay table has been activated, as best shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B. Finally, for the Play 5 selectable bet option, the backgrounds28of both the lower playing area7aand the upper display area7bare red, which reinforces the message29stating that the red pay table has been activated, as best shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B. It should be noted that the background28in the lower player area7aalso includes the fields for the standard game information comprising the amount of player credits17, the amount of the current bet wagered by the player18, the amount of wins by the player19and the message area20.

In the upper display area7b, the video display screen7displays jackpot information about several bonus prizes in the form of jackpots30associated with the base game8and/or electronic gaming machine1, as best shown inFIGS. 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B and 7B. To avoid player confusion, where more than one game is provided by the electronic gaming machine1, it is preferred that the same jackpots30are provided for each game. The jackpots30comprise a grand jackpot30a, major jackpot30b, minor jackpot30cand a minor jackpot30d. Each jackpot30is associated with a jackpot meter31that comprises an array of symbol positions32showing greyed out or inactive designated game symbols33. The designated game symbols33are be exclusive to each of the jackpot meters31, and comprise a firecracker symbol33aexclusive to the grand jackpot meter31a, a drum symbol33bexclusive to the major jackpot meter31b, a cymbal symbol33cexclusive to the minor jackpot meter31cand a rattle symbol33dexclusive to the mini jackpot meter31d. In other embodiments, the designated game symbols33are selected from the game symbols10of the base game8or a subset of game symbols10from the base game8, such as for example the item-themed game symbols10b. However, it will be appreciated that the designated game symbols33can be chosen from symbols appearing exclusively in the feature game9and/or the bonus game of chance45. Prize boxes34a,34b,34cand34dlist the monetary amounts of grand jackpot30a, major jackpot30b, minor jackpot30cand a minor jackpot30d, respectively.

Each of the jackpots30are progressive jackpot prizes. A progressive jackpot prize takes a portion of each bet (typically a set percentage of each bet) made on the electronic gaming machine and thus the amount of the progressive jackpot incrementally increases as more bets are made on the electronic gaming machine. The progressive jackpot is typically awarded when a winning game combination associated with the jackpot occurs in the game played on the electronic gaming machine. In many cases, progressive jackpots are associated with the least probable winning combination and are commonly the highest paying award of the electronic gaming machine. Alternatively, or additionally, once a certain threshold is met, either a certain amount that has been bet on the electronic gaming machine or the incremented amount of the progressive jackpot, a trigger event is activated in the electronic gaming machine to pay out the progressive jackpot prize. Progressive jackpot prizes also tend to be shared amongst multiple electronic gaming machines so as to increase the amount of the progressive jackpot prize and hence increase player interest in playing one of the electronic gaming machines. In some electronic gaming machines, more than one jackpot or progressive jackpot is offered by the electronic gaming machine or electronic gaming machines linked together.

Referring now toFIG. 8, the comparative pay tables of the selectable bet options are illustrated by way of a menu screen40that can be accessed on the lower playing area7aby either pressing one of the buttons6on the console3and/or touching a touch sensitive button on the lower playing area7a. As shown in the menu screen40, the value of the prize awarded for the same winning combination of game symbols changes for one or more winning combinations in each of the pay tables. For example, the winning combination comprising a five of a kind of gold tael symbols10baawards a prize to the value of 100 credits for the Play 1 selectable bet option, which increases to 250 credits for the Play 2 selectable bet option, 500 credits in the Play 3 selectable bet option, 1,000 credits in the Play 4 selectable bet option and 2,000 credits in the Play 5 selectable bet option. The increases in the pay tables for each of the selectable bet options is not linear as the increase in the amount of the bet from the Play 1 to play 2 selectable bet option is by a factor of 2 (from 5 credits to 10 credits), whereas in the pay tables, the prize value for five of a kind of the gold tael symbols10bais increased by 2.5 (from 100 credits to 250 credits). It is noted that for other prizes, such as four of a kind of the gold tael symbols10bthere is no change in the prize value of 25 credits in both the play 1 and play 2 selectable bet options. Incremental increases occur for the three of a kind winning combination between the Play 1 and Play 2 selectable bet options. Similar changes in the value of the prizes as the selectable bet option increases occur for other winning combinations such as the gold shield symbols10bband the silver lion symbol10bc, as illustrated in the pay table menu screen40.

After the player has chosen one of the selectable bet options (and hence chosen a particular pay table corresponding to the selected bet option) and one of the Credit bet per Play options, the electronic game controller4also assigns a number of the Lucky Boy scatter symbols10eto the respective strips for each of the reels12ato12e, depending on the bet option selected by the player. The higher the bet value associated with the selected bet option, the greater the number of Lucky Boy scatter symbols10eis allocated to the reel strips, thus increasing the probability of the Lucky Boy scatter symbol10eappearing on the reels12ato12e. This also increases the probability of activating a bonus game of chance45and the feature game9because in this embodiment the appearance of three Lucky Boy scatter symbols10eis the trigger event for triggering both the feature game9and the bonus game of chance45. In other embodiments, the trigger events for the feature game9and the bonus game45are separate events, with the assignment of special symbols like the Lucky Boy scatter symbols10eaffecting the probability of activating or triggering the bonus game of chance45. In another embodiment, another type of special symbol is assigned to the reel strips as described above to provide a separate probability for triggering or activating the feature game9. Hence, the probability of winning or activating the feature game9and the bonus game of chance45is proportional to the amount of the bet value as represented by the selectable bet option. Thus, a player selecting the Play 3 selectable bet option is more likely to activate the feature game9and the bonus game45than if he or she were to select the Play 1 selectable bet option. As the Play 5 selectable bet option represents a maximum bet, in this embodiment the selection of this bet option will guarantee that the bonus game45is activated, as well as triggering the feature game9in the base game8.

The electronic game controller4then transmits a signal to the display7to cause the reels12to appear to visibly rotate or “spin” in a linear path, typically in a downward vertical direction, and randomly display the game symbols10in each symbol position13for each play of the array11for the base game8. After the reels12stop spinning, the electronic game controller4determines whether there are any predetermined winning combinations of the game symbols10appearing in any player-selected pay lines14, such as a two of a kind, three of a kind, four of a kind or five of a kind for all the game symbols10and other combinations of a “full house”, “straight” or “flush” for the playing card game symbols10a. It will be appreciated that other winning combinations of game symbols9can also be provided. If so, the gaming machine1enters a winning game state and awards a prize according to the displayed predetermined winning combination.

The electronic game controller4also determines whether the feature game9and bonus game45should be activated, based on the trigger event of three Lucky Boy symbols10eappearing in a play or spin of the base game8. The three Lucky Boy scatter symbols10eneed not appear on the same pay line14, but can appear on any of the player-selected pay lines.

In response to the trigger event, the electronic game controller4transmits a signal to the video screen7to cause the bonus game of chance45, named the “Lucky Spin Feature”, to appear in the upper display area7b, as best shown inFIGS. 9A and 9B. A message47appears below the jackpots30ato30dadvising the player the winning outcome of the bonus game of chance45that will in turn activate a jackpot prize selection game49, named the “Lucky Treasure Feature” in this embodiment. In other words, playing the bonus game45determines whether the player wins one of the jackpots30and the jackpot prize selection game49determines which of the jackpots30ato30dis won by the player. Referring toFIG. 9B, in the bonus game45, an array55is shown in the upper screen7bjust below the jackpots30ato30d. The array55comprises of three symbol positions58, which can display either a Lucky Treasure symbol60or a game symbol62. The bonus game45comprises a single free spin of the array55. The appearance of three Lucky Treasure symbols60in the array55will result in the awarding one of the jackpot prizes30ato30dto the player. Also, the accumulation of three Lucky Treasure symbols60will result in the awarding one of the jackpot prizes30ato30dto the player. This can occur where the player triggers the bonus game45in play or spin of the base game8and only obtains a single Lucky Treasure symbol60and then activates the bonus game45again during another play of the base game8and obtains further Lucky Treasure symbols60. A “soft” meter66is shown adjacent to the array55that counts the number of Lucky Treasure symbols60that are accumulated by the player each time the bonus game45is played. Once the player reaches the predetermined threshold of three Lucky Treasure symbols60, this result in the award of one of the jackpots30, to be determined later in the jackpot prize selection game49. In other embodiments, the bonus game of chance45is played in the lower playing area7aof the display, as best shown inFIG. 9C. In another embodiment, the bonus game of chance45is displayed in both the upper display area7band the lower playing area7a(i.e. the same bonus game of chance45is shown and played in both areas7aand7b, which would appear as a combination ofFIGS. 9B and 9C).

After the bonus game of chance45is played, and if a jackpot30has been won, then the upper display area7bwill show a message70advising the player that while the bonus game45has been won, the jackpot prize selection game49will be played after completion of the feature game9, as best shown inFIG. 10. A striking visual image71is also shown in the upper display area7bto reinforce the message70. The message70and image71are shown in the upper display area7bduring play of the feature game9.

The electronic game controller4then transmits a signal to the video screen7to cause the feature game9to appear on the video screen7, as best shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B. The feature game9also uses the same game symbols10as the base game8, as well as the same array11, reels12ato12e, symbol positions13and player-selectable pay lines14on the video screen7. In the feature game9, ten free plays or spins of the feature game are awarded to the player without having to make an additional bet or wager. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that a free play or spin involves a play of the game without requiring any bet to be made by the player, and that any number of free spins can be chosen for the feature game. In addition, it will be appreciated that in the art free plays or spins are commonly referred to as “free games”. The number of free games remaining in the feature game9is indicated by a counter75.

As best shown inFIG. 11A, in the feature game9a sixth reel77is added to the array11and adjacent to the reel12e. The additional sixth reel77only shows multipliers, such as ×2 or ×3, and “blanks” or empty symbol positions. The multipliers increase the value of any prizes won for winning combinations appearing on the reels12ato12ein the feature game9when they appear on the sixth reel77. The increase in prize value is obtained by multiplying the prize value for the stated multiplier value. A message bar80states the types of multipliers that may be shown, which in this case for the Play 5 selectable bet option comprises multipliers of ×3, ×5, ×8, ×10 and ×12. The frequency and range of multipliers shown in the sixth reel77also changes depending on the selected Credits bet per Play option. In this embodiment, the higher the bet value associated with the chosen selectable Credits bet per Play option, the higher the frequency or probability of a multiplier appearing in the sixth reel77and the higher the multiplier values that can be obtained. For example, if the player chooses the 1 credit bet per Play option, then in the feature game9the sixth reel77will only show a ×1 multiplier (in effect no multiplier is applied), whereas the 3 credits bet per Play option provides the range of ×2, ×3, ×5 and ×8 multipliers that may appear in the sixth reel77.

The ranges of multipliers that are provided for each Credits bet per Play option are shown in a table82of a rules screen84on the lower playing area7aof the video screen7, as best shown inFIG. 12A. The table82has listed amounts85a,85b,85c,85dand85ecorresponding to the 1 credit bet per Play option, 2 credits bet per Play option, 3 credits bet per Play option, 4 credits bet per Play option and 5 credits bet per Play option, respectively. In other embodiments, different ranges of multipliers are used for the sixth reel77for the selectable bet options in the feature game9. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 12B, the table82has the same listed Credit bet per Play options85ato85e, but each of the amounts are associated with multipliers of higher value than the multipliers in the table82ofFIG. 12A. For example, the 1 credit bet per Play option85ain table82ofFIG. 12Ahas no multipliers, whereas the 1 credit bet per Play option85ain table82ofFIG. 12Bhas three multipliers—×2, ×3, ×5 and ×8. Likewise, the 5 credits bet per Play option85ein table82ofFIG. 12Ahas a range of ×3, ×5, ×18, ×10 and ×12 multipliers, whereas the 5 credits bet per Play option85ein table82ofFIG. 12Bhas a range of ×8, ×12, ×18, ×20 and ×38 multipliers.

Also, the sixth reel77may show special multiplier symbols86to88, being Prosperity ×2 symbol86, Prosperity ×3 symbol87and Prosperity ×5 symbol88, as well as a red pattern symbol89. Each of the Prosperity symbols86to88confer multipliers of ×2, ×3 and ×5 in addition to those listed in the table82, while the red pattern symbol89acts as a “blank” symbol that has no effect. In some embodiments, the sixth reel77shows game symbols10for the feature game9to extend the pay lines14, and hence increase the chance or probability of the player obtaining or achieving a winning combination of game symbols10on the array11.

During the free spins of the reels12and77in the feature game9, any winning combinations of game symbols10on the reels12are awarded prizes according to the coloured pay table associated with the selectable bet option chosen for the base game8. Any multipliers shown in the sixth reel77then multiply the value of any awarded prizes by the multiplier value. Where more than one multiplier is shown in the sixth reel77, then the multiplier values are added together to provide a cumulative multiplier value that is applied to any awarded prizes. In other embodiments, the multiplier values are multiplied together. In a further embodiment, only the highest multiple value is applied to the awarded prizes. In addition, the appearance of two Lucky Boy scatter symbols10eon the reels12ato12ewill retrigger the feature game9that results in further free plays of the feature game. Upon conclusion of the feature game9, a message bar90will appear to prompt the player to proceed to the jackpot prize selection game49by pressing a “start feature” button, as best shown inFIG. 11B.

Referring toFIGS. 13A and 13B, once the player presses the start feature button (being either one of buttons6on the console3or a virtual button on the video screen7), the electronic game controller4transmits a signal to the video screen7to display the jackpot prize selection game49. The upper display area7bwill show a title image92for the jackpot prize selection game49(as best shown inFIG. 13A) while the lower playing area7awill show an array95for playing the jackpot prize selection game49(as best shown inFIG. 13B). Initially, a message97will be superimposed over the array95instructing the player how to play the jackpot prize selection game49.

As best shown inFIGS. 14A and 14B, the message97will disappear and the array95becomes available for play. In the jackpot prize selection game49, the array95comprises fifteen symbol positions99showing “banner” symbols100that are exclusive to the jackpot prize selection game49. The player selects banner symbols100one by one using a touch screen interface on the display screen7to reveal symbols underneath. If the revealed game symbol is one of the inactive or greyed out symbols33ato33din one of the jackpot meters31(as shown inFIG. 14B), then the relevant jackpot meter31will increment by one. This increase in the jackpot meter31is shown by rendering one of the inactive or greyed out symbols33in colour to indicate that it is active.

Aside from the designated game symbols33, there are also other revealed game symbols that may be used to fill the jackpot meters31, as best shown inFIG. 14B. A message bar105in the upper display area7bbelow the jackpots30ato30dadvises that in addition to the designated game symbols33ato33d, a substitute symbol in the form of a ying-yang WILD symbol110and multiplier symbols113,115,117,120,122and125can be used to fill one or more of the jackpot meters31ato31d. The yin-yang WILD symbol110when revealed underneath a banner symbol100causes each of the jackpot meters31ato31dto increment by one, which is shown by filling in one symbol position32for each jackpot meter31ato31dwith a colour version of their respective designated symbols33ato33d. Of the multiplier symbols, the ×2 cymbal symbol113and the ×3 cymbal symbol115fills the jackpot meter31cby one, as well as multiplying the value in the prize box34cby 2 and 3, respectively, if the jackpot meter31cfor the minor jackpot30cis filled. Likewise, the ×2 drum symbol117and the ×3 drum symbol120fills the jackpot meter31bby one, as well as multiplying the value in the prize box34bby 2 and 3, respectively, if the jackpot meter31bfor the major jackpot30bis filled. Similarly, ×2 rattle symbol122and the ×3 rattle symbol125fills the jackpot meter31dby one, as well as multiplying the value in the prize box34dby 2 and 3, respectively, if the jackpot meter31dfor the mini jackpot30dis filled.

FIGS. 15A and 15Bshow the jackpot selection prize game49after the player has made three selections of banner symbols100. The selected banner symbols100have revealed two firecracker symbols33aand a ying-yang WILD symbol110, as best shown inFIG. 15A. Consequently, the jackpot meter31afor the grand jackpot30ahas been filled by three firecracker symbols33aappearing colour in corresponding symbol positions32, as best shown inFIG. 15B. As the ying-yang WILD symbol110fills up each jackpot meter31ato31d, the jackpot meters31bto31dfor the major, minor and mini jackpots30bto30dare filled by one drum symbol33b, one cymbal symbol33cand one rattle symbol33dappearing in colour. The player continues selecting banner symbols100until one of the jackpot meters31ato31dis filled in that each symbol position32displays a coloured designated game symbol33, and the player is then awarded the jackpot prize31ato31dcorresponding to the filled jackpot meter.

FIGS. 16A and 16Balso show another play of the jackpot selection prize game49after the player has made four selections of banner symbols100. There has been a significant increase in the prize boxes34ato34dof each of the jackpots30ato30d, indicating that there has been some time since any of the jackpots have been won. The selected banner symbols100have revealed two firecracker symbols33a, a ying-yang WILD symbol110and a drum symbol33b, as best shown inFIG. 16A. Again, the jackpot meter31afor the grand jackpot30ahas been filled by three firecracker symbols33aappearing colour in corresponding symbol positions32, as best shown inFIG. 15B. The appearance of the drum symbol33band the ying-yang WILD symbol110means that the jackpot meter31bfor the major jackpot30bhas been filled by two drum symbols33bappearing in colour. Finally, the ying-yang WILD symbol110has caused one cymbal symbol33cand one rattle symbol33dto fill up each jackpot meter31cand31dfor the minor and mini jackpots30cand by appearing in colour. Again, the player continues selecting banner symbols100until one of the jackpot meters31ato31dis filled in that each symbol position32displays a coloured designated game symbol33, and the player is then awarded the jackpot prize31ato31dcorresponding to the filled jackpot meter.

It will be appreciated that the monetary amounts in the prize boxes34ato34dfor the jackpots30ato30dare not static but are dynamic in nature. In this embodiment, the jackpots30are progressive jackpot prizes in that as the base game8is played on the electronic gaming machine1, a portion of each bet is taken and added to each jackpot30to gradually increase the monetary amount displayed in each respective prize box34until one of the jackpots30is won. This is demonstrated inFIG. 15, where small increases in the value of the jackpots30are shown in the prize boxes34ato34d. Once one of the jackpots30is won, the relevant jackpot is reset to a base monetary value from which it again increases incrementally as bets are made on the electronic gaming machine1. In other embodiments, the jackpots30are not progressive but increase by a fixed amount after a predetermined amount of playing time has passed.

The rules of the base game8, feature game9, bonus game45and jackpot prize selection game49are available to the player through various rule screens that can be brought by on the lower playing area7aof the video screen7by pressing either a designated button from the buttons6on the console and/or a virtual button130on the touch sensitive part of the video screen7, as shown inFIGS. 17 to 21. Rule screens135,137and139explains the use of the player selectable bet options and the rules for the base game8, the feature game9and bonus game45. Rule screen140explains the rules for the jackpot prize selection game49and rule screen142explains the rules for awarding the jackpots30ato30d.

While the preferred embodiment has been described in relation to fixed and progressive jackpot-type bonus prizes in relation to a single electronic gaming machine1, it will be appreciated that the invention is applicable to multiple electronic gaming machines linked together as a gaming system. For example, the jackpots30can be progressive bonus prizes that are configured to be part of a wide area or in-house link progressive jackpot. In other words, the progressive jackpot can be awarded on a group of networked electronic gaming machines in a specified area or a group of specified electronic gaming machines that are linked together for jackpot purposes. In this case, there is a central jackpot or bonus prize controller that is in electronic communication with the electronic game controllers4of each linked electronic gaming machine1that monitors and controls the award of the jackpots30ato30d. However, the individual electronic game controllers4would each control the award of the jackpots30ato30don their respective electronic gaming machines1and communicate the award of a jackpot to the central bonus prize controller.

Also, the invention is applicable to electronic gaming machines that provide a plurality of games, so-called multi-game gaming machines. In this instance, there can be one or more jackpot prizes associated with each game. Also, one or more of the jackpot prizes can be shared by two or more games. This can also apply where there is a plurality of electronic gaming machines linked together. That is, one or more jackpot prizes across several or all the linked electronic gaming machines are awarded through the bonus game of chance45and its associated jackpot prize selection game49, and this may occur for only one, some or all of the games offered on each electronic gaming machine1. In other embodiments, only one of the jackpot prizes is won through the bonus game of chance45and its associated jackpot prize selection game49to further emphasise that particular jackpot prize, such as the grand jackpot30a. This can be extended to electronic gaming machines1linked together.

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, game enhancing elements can be awarded in the feature game9in addition or as an alternative to the prizes awarded based on the coloured pay tables. The award of game enhancing elements can be done by way of the sixth reel77or the appearance of game enhancing symbols in the reels12ato12e. A variety of game enhancing elements can be awarded by the game enhancing symbols, including:i) symbols that award a predetermined number of free plays of said game, such as 8, 10 or 15 free spins or games;ii) win multiplier symbols that multiply the amount of any win from one of said predetermined winning combinations;iii) “wild” symbols that cause the display of substitute symbols in randomly selected symbol positions;iv) bonus symbols that awards a bonus prize, either as a monetary amount or as a bonus credit;v) wild multiplier symbols that cause the display of substitute symbols on the array11and multiplies the amount of any win from one of said predetermined winning combinations;vi) bonus wild symbols that cause the display of substitute symbols on the array11and awards a bonus prize;vii) symbols that cause the award of additional free plays of said game;viii) symbols that cause one or more of said symbol positions to be held static (typically one or more reels12ato12e) and display substitute symbols on the array11;ix) symbols that cause the same game symbol to be stacked in a group of symbol positions, typically the group being one or more reels12ato12e;x) symbols that cause the display of new game symbols on the array11;xi) “reveal” symbols that cause a game symbol to reveal another game symbol;xii) “replacement” symbols that cause one or more game symbols to be replaced by other game symbols in the array11;xiii) bonus prize of 5× bet, 10× bet or 25× bet (the total amount of the bet or credits bet per pay line);xiv) all royal card symbols change to wilds (substitute symbols) on reels12b,12cand12d(usually called reels2,3and4, respectively) of the array11;xv) all picture symbols change to wilds on reels2,3and4of the array11;xvi) all symbols on reels2and4of the array11change to wild symbols; andxvii) all symbols on reels12aand12e(usually called reels1and5, respectively) of the array11change to wild symbols.

These game enhancing symbols do not modify the function or value of the game symbols10that appear on the arrays11, but instead confer bonus prizes, free games or change existing game symbols for other game symbols (such as replacing picture, royal card or symbols belonging to a reel with wild/substitute symbols). Where the function of game symbols10have been changed or the game symbols10are replaced, then this modification can take effect with the next play of the game instead of applying to the result of the spun array11. In another embodiment, the game enhancing symbols may indicate the duration in which its game enhancing element is applied, such as a predetermined number of spins or a predetermined time period.

In other embodiments, the game enhancing symbols include “collector”-type game enhancing symbols which award points or tokens. The collection of points or tokens during the base game8and/or feature game9leads to the trigger of additional prizes or game enhancing symbols, depending on the number of points or tokens that are collected. These additional prizes can include stand alone progressive jackpots, bonus prizes and super games, which are enhanced versions of free spins or games where there are greater pay outs or frequency of wins.

While the same game format can be essentially used across the base game8and feature game9, it will be appreciated that the game format may vary across both the base game and feature game. For example, the feature game9could adopt a different format of symbol positions and/or use an entirely different set of game symbols, or a mixture of game symbols from the base game8and different game symbols. In another example, the base game8may be a wheel-type game or a four reel game and the feature game9may be a standard five reel game. Similarly, the base game8and feature game9may each have different game symbols, game rules and pay tables that are unique to each game. Also, the arrangement of the base game8and the feature game9is not limited to a set of reels or columns, but could take other forms, such as non-rectangular arrays (i.e. arrays that do not comprise rows and columns). For example, where the array is circular, the predetermined game positions can take the form of pie-shaped slices or wedges.

In another preferred embodiment, there is no need for a trigger event in the form of the appearance of a predetermined number of trigger symbols, such as the Lucky Boy scatter symbols10e. Instead, the electronic game controller4can internally determine when to trigger the feature game9and/or bonus game35in the base game8. One way to implement this preferred embodiment is for the electronic game controller4to internally generate a random number and check if it is a predetermined number or within a predetermined range of numbers that will initiate the appearance of the trigger symbols. For example, the predetermined range of numbers could be the range of numbers between 1 and 10 and the electronic game controller4internally generates a random number between 1 and 100. If the generated number is any one of numbers 1 to 10, then this results in the electronic game controller4causing the trigger event to occur in the base game8and activating the feature game9and/or bonus game45. This random number generation can also be used by the electronic game controller4to determine whether the player has won one of jackpots30ato30din the bonus game of chance45. This type of trigger for the jackpot or bonus prize is commonly referred to as a mystery jackpot. That is, none of the symbols in the game trigger the jackpot; hence the triggering event is a “mystery”.

In other embodiments, the electronic gaming machine1also offers the player the opportunity to play in community games against other players in so-called tournament games, or even in player versus player games. This is typically implemented by electronically linking several electronic gaming machines1in a group within a gaming venue. The player versus player or tournament game can be played simultaneously by the players or can be staggered, with some players playing at one time and some players playing at another time in the same game. In this situation, the player versus player or tournament game comprises the award of an additional bonus prize in addition to the jackpot prizes.

While one embodiment of the invention has been described in relation to a base game8and a feature game9, it will be appreciated that the invention could include one or more additional feature games that are triggered by specific trigger symbols appearing in the feature game9. Also, the additional feature games may also have trigger symbols that trigger further feature games in a cascading fashion. These additional and further feature games could have the same game play elements as the feature game9or be different feature games entirely.

Furthermore, the embodiments of the invention have been described as providing a standard 5×3 set of reels12for the base game8. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the size and shape of the reels12may vary. For example, the array11could take any number of different shapes, such as triangular, circular, square, hexagonal, hemi-spherical or other polygonal shapes. In another example, where the array is circular, the symbol positions13can take the form of pie-shaped slices or wedges. Alternatively, the arrays11could have an unequal number of rows and/or columns. For example, the reels12a,12bcould have three rows, but the reels12cto12ecould have four rows.

Also, in a further embodiment, the player can selectively stop spinning of the reels12to increase player interaction and provide the player with an opportunity to guess when a desirable game symbol may appear in a symbol position13. Furthermore, the player can start spinning of the reels12to further enhance player interaction.

In other embodiments, the base game8(and the feature game) need not be displayed on a single video screen7. Instead, they may be displayed on separate video screens, with the lower playing area7aappearing in a lower video screen and the upper display area7bon an upper video screen. Also, the order can be reversed, with the playing area7aappearing on an upper video screen or upper part of a single video display screen7and the information usually displayed on the upper display area7bappearing on a lower video screen or lower part of a single video display screen.

In another embodiment, the video screen7is a touch screen for use in addition to the player-actuatable buttons6so as to enable the player to select the bet level (such as bet denominations or bet per pay line14) as well as other various features, such as making monetary bets for the game, initiating play of any base and feature games played and responding to any messages or requests issued on the electronic gaming machine1by the electronic game controller4. In this case, the player may control when the reels12start spinning and stop spinning, either individually or collectively, by simply touching the reels12. Control over spinning of the reels12can also be implemented through the buttons6on the console3. This increases player interaction and provide the player with an opportunity to guess when a particular game symbol10may appear in the reels12.

Referring toFIG. 22, another embodiment of the invention is shown in the form of an electronic gaming machine200. The electronic gaming machine200may include a housing or cabinet250and one or more value transfer mechanisms or devices, which may include a coin slot or acceptor252, a paper currency or bill acceptor254, a ticket reader/printer256and a card reader258, which may be used to input value to the electronic gaming machine200. A value transfer device may include any device that can accept value from a player. The topper (not shown) may be mounted to the top of the electronic gaming machine200.

If provided on the electronic gaming machine200, the ticket reader/printer256may be used to read and/or print or otherwise encode ticket vouchers260. The ticket vouchers260may be composed of paper or another printable or encodable material and may have one or more of the following informational items printed or encoded thereon: the casino name, the type of ticket voucher, a validation number, a bar code with control and/or security data, the date and time of issuance of the ticket voucher, redemption instructions and restrictions, a description of an award, and any other information that may be necessary or desirable. Different types of ticket vouchers260could be used, such as bonus ticket vouchers, cash-redemption ticket vouchers, casino chip ticket vouchers, extra game play ticket vouchers, merchandise ticket vouchers, restaurant ticket vouchers, show ticket vouchers, etc. The ticket vouchers260could be printed with an optically readable material such as ink, or data on the ticket vouchers260could be magnetically encoded. The ticket reader/printer256may be provided with the ability to both read and print ticket vouchers260, or it may be provided with the ability to only read or only print or encode ticket vouchers260. In the latter case, for example, some of the electronic gaming machines200may have ticket printers256that may be used to print ticket vouchers260, which could then be used by a player in other electronic gaming machines200that have ticket readers256.

If provided, the card reader258may include any type of card reading device, such as a magnetic card reader or an optical card reader, and may be used to read data from a card offered by a player, such as a credit card or a player tracking card. If provided for player tracking purposes, the card reader258may be used to read data from, and/or write data to, player tracking cards that are capable of storing data representing the identity of a player, the identity of a casino, the players gaming habits, etc.

The electronic gaming machine200may include one or more audio speakers262, a coin payout tray264, an input control panel266, and a colour video display unit270for displaying images relating to the game or games provided by the electronic gaming machine200. The audio speakers262may generate audio representing sounds such as the noise of spinning reels, a dealers voice, music, announcements or any other audio related to a game. The input control panel266may be provided with a plurality of pushbuttons or touch-sensitive areas that may be pressed by a player to select games, make wagers, make gaming decisions, etc.

FIG. 23illustrates one possible embodiment of the control panel266, which may be used where the electronic gaming machine200having a plurality of reels. The control panel266may include a “See Pays” button272that, when activated, causes the display unit270to generate one or more display screens showing the odds or payout information for the game or games provided by the electronic gaming machine200. As used herein, the term “button” is intended to encompass any device that allows a player to make an input, such as an input device that must be depressed to make an input selection or a display area that a player may simply touch. The control panel266may include a “Cash Out” button274that may be activated when a player decides to terminate play on the electronic gaming machine200, in which case the electronic gaming machine200may return value to the player, such as by returning a number of coins to the player via the payout tray264.

The control panel266may be provided with a plurality of selection buttons276, each of which allows the player to select a different number of pay lines prior to spinning the reels. For example, five buttons276may be provided, each of which may allow a player to select one, three, five, seven or nine pay lines.

The control panel266may also be provided with a plurality of selection buttons78each of which allows a player to specify a wager amount for each pay line selected. For example, the electronic gaming machine200may be provided with five selection buttons78, each of which may allow a player to select 1¢, 2¢, 5¢, 10¢ and 20¢, to wager for each pay line selected. In that case, if a player were to activate one of the buttons276to select five pay lines and then activate one of the buttons278to select 5¢ per pay line to be wagered or bet, the total wager would be $0.25.

The control panel266may include a “Max Bet” button280to allow a player to make the maximum wager allowable for a game. In the above example, where up to nine pay lines were provided and up to 20¢ could be wagered for each pay line selected, the maximum wager would be $1.80 The control panel266may include a spin button282to allow the player to initiate spinning of the reels after a bet has been made.

InFIG. 23, a rectangle is shown around the buttons272,274,276,278,280,282. It should be understood that the rectangle simply designates, for ease of reference, an area in which the buttons272,274,276,278,280,282may be located. Consequently, the term “control panel” should not be construed to imply that a panel or plate separate from the housing250of the electronic gaming machine200is required, and the term “control panel” may encompass a plurality or grouping of player activatable buttons.

Although one possible control panel266is described above, it should be understood that different buttons could be utilized in the control panel266, and that the particular buttons used may depend on the game or games that could be played on the electronic gaming machine200. Although the control panel266is shown to be separate from the display unit270, it should be understood that the control panel266could be generated by the display unit270. In that case, each of the buttons of the control panel266could be a coloured area generated by the display unit270, and some type of mechanism may be associated with the display unit270to detect when each of the buttons was touched, such as a touch-sensitive screen.

As noted above, the electronic gaming machine200may include a mechanism by which the electronic gaming machine200may determine the identity of the player. In particular, the card reader258may be used to read a card that carries an identification code that may be uniquely associated with the player so that the gaming unit can differentiate that player from all other players, or so that the gaming unit can differentiate that player as a member of a group of players from all player not a member of the group of players. The electronic gaming machine200may also include equipment, such as a keypad284, an input pad286(with optional stylus287), a port (or antenna)288adapted to communicate via a wired or wireless link (infrared or radio frequency link, for example) to a mobile electronic device290(such as a personal digital assistant, smart phone or tablet), a camera292, a scanner294, a retinal (or iris) scanner296, fingerprint scanner297, and/or a microphone298. The electronic gaming machine200may include any one of the devices258,284,286,288,290,292,294,296,297,298, or the electronic gaming machine200may include a combination of some or all of the devices258,284,286,287,288,290,292,294,296,297,298.

In operation, a player may identify him or herself to the electronic gaming machine200by entering a unique numeric or alpha-numeric code using the key pad284, for example. Alternatively, the player may use his or her finger or the stylus287to sign his or her signature on the input pad286. As a further alternative, the player may sign his or her signature on the mobile electronic device290, which signature is then converted to electronic data, and the data is then transferred via the port/antenna288to the electronic gaming machine200. As yet another alternative, the player may sign his or her signature on a piece of paper that is then photographed using the camera292or scanned using the scanner294(or the bill acceptor254) to convert the signature into electronic data. As an additional alternative, the player may place one of his or her fingers or his or her hand on the scanner297, and the scanner297may generate an electronic data representation of the fingerprint on one or more of the player's fingers or an electronic data representation of the pattern of the entire hand. Alternatively, the camera292may be used to take a picture (live or still) of the player, the picture then being converted into electronic data. As a still further alternative, the player may place his or her eye up to the retinal (or iris) scanner296, and the retinal (or iris) scanner296may generate an electronic data representation corresponding to the pattern of the retina (or iris) of the player. As yet another alternative, the player may speak into the microphone298, and characteristics of the spoken words (or voiceprint) may be converted into an electronic data representation.

FIG. 24is a block diagram of a number of components that may be incorporated in the electronic gaming machine200. Referring toFIG. 24, the electronic gaming machine200may include a controller300that may comprise a program memory302, a microcontroller or microprocessor (MP)304, a random-access memory (RAM)306and an input/output (I/O) circuit308, all of which may be interconnected via an address/data bus310. It should be appreciated that although only one microprocessor304is shown, the controller300may include multiple microprocessors304. Similarly, the memory of the controller300may include multiple RAMs306and multiple program memories302. Although the I/O circuit108is shown as a single block, it should be appreciated that the I/O circuit308may include a number of different types of I/O circuits. The RAM(s)304and program memories302may be implemented as semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, and/or optically readable memories, for example.

FIG. 24illustrates that the coin acceptor252, the bill acceptor254, the ticket reader/printer256, the card reader258, the control panel266, the display unit270, the keypad284, the input pad286(and optionally the stylus287), the port/antenna288, the digital camera292, the scanner294, the retinal scanner296, the fingerprint scanner297and the microphone298may be operatively coupled to the I/O circuit308, each of those components being so coupled by either a unidirectional or bidirectional, single-line or multiple-line data link, which may depend on the design of the component that is used. The speaker(s)262may be operatively coupled to a sound circuit312, that may comprise a voice- and sound-synthesis circuit or that may comprise a driver circuit. The sound-generating circuit312may be coupled to the I/O circuit308.

As shown inFIG. 24, the components252,254,256,258,266,270,284,286,287,288,292,294,296,297,298,312may be connected to the I/O circuit308via a respective direct line or conductor. Different connection schemes could be used. For example, one or more of the components shown inFIG. 12may be connected to the I/O circuit308via a common bus or other data link that is shared by a number of components. Furthermore, some of the components may be directly connected to the microprocessor304without passing through the I/O circuit308.

It will be appreciated that while the preferred embodiments have been described in relation to an industry standard electronic gaming machine, the invention can be readily applied to other types of electronic gaming machines, including a personal computer (standing alone or connected to a communications network, LAN or WAN), mobile electronic devices (such as handheld or portable electronic devices like tablets and smart phones) and other electronic devices capable of displaying a game. In the case of mobile electronic device, in one arrangement it may permit the player to make bets using “virtual” credits that represent a monetary value, but do not require the player to make a monetary transaction. Instead, the invention may provide a tiered access to the various features of the game so that the player can make relatively small payments to access particular features of the game or obtain additional benefits during game play. An alternative arrangement would require the player to purchase virtual credits or tokens via an interface on the mobile electronic device or an online interface accessible by the mobile electronic device. Similarly, either of the above described arrangements can be applied where the invention is implemented on a personal computer (PC) connected to the internet (wirelessly or not). In one example of the implementation, the PC would access an online casino over the internet to play the game of the invention or the game of the invention would be part of a social networking website. It is also contemplated that the player could also make regular payments to subscribe to continue playing the game on the mobile electronic device, PC or other electronic device.

In an alternative embodiment, the electronic gaming machine also provides an option for the player to play with either credits based on a monetary amount or virtual credits as discussed above. This can be implemented by way of a selection menu prior to playing the selected game or by providing a suitable menu button on screen during play of the selected game.

In another aspect, the invention includes a computer programme configured to perform the invention. In this way the invention can be implemented in various ways on an electronic gaming machine. In a further aspect, the invention includes a gaming system configured comprising a central processing unit (such as a computer or computational processor) configured for communication with an electronic gaming machine to perform the invention. In a yet another aspect, the invention includes a non-transitory computer readable or carrier medium carrying computer executable code that, when executed on a central processing unit configured for communication with an electronic gaming machine, causes said central processing unit to perform the invention. In this case, the non-transitory carrier medium includes an external hard drive, a memory device, including a memory card, smart card, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, USB key, magnetic card or other electronic storage device.

It will further be appreciated that any of the features in the preferred embodiments of the invention can be combined together and are not necessarily applied in isolation from each other. For example, the feature of the player being able to selectively starting or stopping spinning of the reels12and the feature of providing separate video screens for the lower playing area7aand upper display area7bcan be combined into a single electronic gaming machine1. Similar combinations of two or more features from the above described embodiments or embodiments of the invention can be readily made by one skilled in the art.

By providing the player with the ability to effectively choose the probability of triggering the bonus game and/or feature game based on a selected bet level, the invention introduces a variety in game play and game mechanics to the player, thus increasing the player's excitement and retaining his or her interest in playing the same electronic gaming machine. Also, by linking the selected bet level to pay tables of increasing value, the invention further increases the player's interest and participation in the electronic gaming machine as the player sees a direct connection between the selected bet level and the expected pay outs for winning combinations and jackpot prizes. The invention also adds greater value to the player in terms of providing a greater reward to increasing the bet level as the amount of prizes for winning combinations, probability of winning a jackpot or bonus prize and the probabilities of triggering the bonus game and/or feature game also increases, compared to a conventional electronic gaming machine. All these advantages of the invention result in the player being more likely to retain interest in continuing to play the same electronic gaming machine due to the variation in the game play on the electronic gaming machine. Furthermore, since the electronic game controller controls operation of the electronic gaming machine, the invention can be readily implemented to existing gaming machines and other gaming systems. In all these respects, the invention represents a practical and commercially significant improvement over the prior art.