Patent Publication Number: US-11651654-B2

Title: Gaming machines and method for increased return to player mode

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/893,590, filed Aug. 29, 2019 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The field of disclosure relates generally to electronic gaming, and more particularly to an electronic gaming machine and method of operation thereof that includes one or more increased return to player (RTP) modes with expanded rows or guaranteed wilds. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electronic gaming machines (EGMs), or gaming devices, provide a variety of wagering games such as, for example, and without limitation, slot games, video poker games, video blackjack games, roulette games, video bingo games, keno games, and other types of games that are frequently offered at casinos and other locations. Play on EGMs typically involves a player establishing a credit balance. When the player is done, he/she cashes out the credit balance (typically by pressing a cash out button to receive a ticket from the ticket printer). The ticket may be “cashed-in” for money or inserted into another machine to establish a credit balance for play by inserting or otherwise submitting money and placing a monetary wager (deducted from the credit balance) on one or more outcomes of an instance, or play, of a primary game, sometimes referred to as a base game. In many games, a player may qualify for secondary games or bonus rounds by attaining a certain winning combination or other triggering event in the base game. Secondary games provide an opportunity to win additional game instances, credits, awards, jackpots, progressives, etc. Awards from any winning outcomes are typically added back to the credit balance and can be provided to the player upon completion of a gaming session or when the player wants to “cash out.” 
     Slot games are often displayed to the player in the form of various symbols arranged in a row-by-column grid, or “matrix.” Specific matching combinations of symbols along predetermined paths, or paylines, drawn through the matrix indicate the outcome of the game. The display typically highlights winning combinations and outcomes for ready identification by the player. Matching combinations and their corresponding awards are usually shown in a “pay-table” that is available to the player for reference. Often, the player may vary his/her wager to included differing numbers of paylines and/or the amount bet on each line. By varying the wager, the player may sometimes alter the frequency or number of winning combinations, the frequency or number of secondary games, and/or the amount awarded. 
     Typical games use a random number generator (RNG) to randomly determine the outcome of each game. The game is designed to return a certain percentage of the amount wagered back to the player, referred to as return to player (RTP), over the course of many plays or instances of the game. The RTP and randomness of the RNG are fundamental to ensuring the fairness of the games and are therefore highly regulated. The RNG may be used to randomly determine the outcome of a game and symbols may then be selected that correspond to that outcome. Alternatively, the RNG may be used to randomly select the symbols whose resulting combinations determine the outcome. Notably, some games may include an element of skill on the part of the player and are therefore not entirely random. 
     Many conventional gaming machines create situations of enhanced RTP during bonus play, where the bonus play game provides increased possibilities of and/or chances of winning to the player. However, these known gaming machines do not allow for notifying the player how close they are to reaching an enhanced RTP situation. Gaming systems and methods are needed that provide enhanced RTP modes in more situations to increase player enjoyment and engagement. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
     In one aspect, an electronic gaming machine for providing an increased return to player (RTP) mode is provided. The electronic gaming machine includes at least one display device, at least one processor; and at least one memory device in communication with the at least one processor, the at least one memory device storing instructions which when executed by the at least one processor causes the at least one processor to, at least display a user interface in a first game mode on the at least on display device, the user interface including a first quantity of mode tracking element positions; determine a first outcome for the first game mode, based at least in part on a first output from a random number generator; add a first mode tracking element to the mode tracking element positions, in response to determining that the first outcome includes a mode tracking element; determine a second outcome for the first game mode, based at least in part on a second output from the random number generator; add a second mode tracking element to the mode tracking element positions, in response to determining that the second outcome includes a mode tracking element; update the user interface to display a second game mode, in response to determining that the first quantity of mode tracking element positions have been filled with mode tracking elements; and determine a third outcome for the second game mode, based at least in part on a third output from the random number generator. 
     In another aspect, a computer-implemented method is provided which includes causing to be displayed, by a controller, a user interface in a first game mode on a display device, the user interface in the first game mode including a first plurality of symbol display positions; determining whether a first mode tracking element is in each outcome of a plurality of outcomes of the first game mode, each outcome of the plurality of outcomes of the first game mode comprising a plurality of symbols displayed at the first plurality of symbol display positions; accumulating, on the user interface, each first mode tracking element in the plurality of outcomes of the first game mode; causing the user interface to update to display the user interface in a second game mode in response to determining that a first quantity of mode tracking elements have been accumulated, the user interface in the second game mode including a second plurality of symbol display positions; and determining an outcome for each of a quantity of second game mode outcomes, each outcome of the quantity of second game mode outcomes comprising a plurality of symbols displayed at the second plurality of symbol display positions, where the quantity of second game mode outcomes is based on the first quantity of mode tracking elements. 
     In yet another aspect one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media comprising instructions are provided. The instructions when executed by at least one processor cause the one or more processors to, at least: display a user interface in a first game mode on the at least on display device, the user interface including a first quantity of mode tracking element positions and a plurality of symbol display positions, the plurality of symbols display positions arranged in a plurality of columns, each column of the plurality of columns having a column height; determine a first outcome for the first game mode, based at least in part on a first output from a random number generator; add a first mode tracking element to the mode tracking element positions, in response to determining that the first outcome includes a mode tracking element; determine a second outcome for the first game mode, based at least in part on a second output from the random number generator; add a second mode tracking element to the mode tracking element positions, in response to determining that the second outcome includes a mode tracking element; update the user interface to display a second game mode, in response to determining that the first quantity of mode tracking element positions have been filled with mode tracking elements, wherein the column height of at least one of the plurality of columns in the second game mode in increased; and determine a third outcome for the second game mode, based at least in part on a third output from the random number generator. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       An example embodiment of the subject matter disclosed will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG.  1    is an exemplary diagram showing several EGMs networked with various gaming related servers. 
         FIG.  2 A  is a block diagram showing various functional elements of an exemplary EGM. 
         FIG.  2 B  depicts a casino gaming environment according to one example. 
         FIG.  2 C  is a diagram that shows examples of components of a system for providing online gaming according to some aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  3    illustrates, in block diagram form, an embodiment of a game processing architecture that implements a game processing pipeline for the play of a game in accordance with various embodiments described herein. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a view of an exemplary user interface for an EGM with an enhanced RTP mode in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a process for executing a game with an enhanced RTP mode on an EGM in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates another view of the user interface during an enhanced RTP mode in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a further view of the user interface during another enhanced RTP mode in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a view of another exemplary user interface for an EGM with an enhanced RTP mode in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  9    illustrates another view of the user interface during a variation of the enhanced RTP mode shown in  FIG.  7   . 
         FIG.  10    displays a view of a user interface  900  for an exemplary mode tracking system for displaying progress towards a plurality of enhanced RTP modes in accordance with at least one embodiment of the disclosure 
         FIG.  11    displays another view of the user interface for the exemplary mode tracking system in accordance with  FIG.  9   . 
         FIG.  12    displays a view of a base game for achieving an enhanced play mode, such as an enhanced RTP mode, as shown in  FIGS.  4  and  5   . 
         FIGS.  13 - 15    display a plurality of views of the base game shown in  FIG.  11    progressing to the enhanced mode. 
         FIG.  16    displays a view of a play of a first enhanced RTP mode of the base game shown in  FIGS.  12 - 15   . 
         FIG.  17    displays a view of a play of a second enhanced RTP mode of the base game shown in  FIGS.  12 - 15   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the exemplary embodiment, an electronic gaming machine (EGM) provides an increased return to player (RTP) mode to the player during base play. In the exemplary embodiment, this enhanced RTP mode occurs during the player&#39;s base wagering game and provides a number of plays in the enhanced RTP mode. In some embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode requires a wager to be made by the player. In some embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode may carry over to a bonus game that the player triggers. In the exemplary embodiment, the enhanced RTP mode increases the player&#39;s play area from 3×4×4×4×3 to either 3×6×6×6×3 or 3×8×8×8×3. In other embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode provides guaranteed and automatic wilds with each enhanced RTP mode spin. In some embodiments, the EGM displays the player&#39;s progress to accessing the enhanced RTP mode. In some further embodiments, the EGM displays the player&#39;s progress to the enhanced RTP mode for each bet level, where each different bet level has a corresponding enhanced RTP mode. In still further embodiments, the progress to the enhanced RTP modes is persistent across players on the EGM, where the EGM displays its current progress to each of the enhanced RTP modes including during demo mode or while no game is being actively played on the EGM. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates several different models of EGMs which may be networked to various gaming related servers. Shown is a system  100  in a gaming environment including one or more server computers  102  (e.g., slot servers of a casino) that are in communication, via a communications network, with one or more gaming devices  104 A- 104 X (EGMs, slots, video poker, bingo machines, etc.) that can implement one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The gaming devices  104 A- 104 X may alternatively be portable and/or remote gaming devices such as, but not limited to, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, or a game console, although such devices may require specialized software and/or hardware to comply with regulatory requirements regarding devices used for wagering or games of chance in which monetary awards are provided. 
     Communication between the gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and the server computers  102 , and among the gaming devices  104 A- 104 X, may be direct or indirect, such as over the Internet through a website maintained by a computer on a remote server or over an online data network including commercial online service providers, Internet service providers, private networks, and the like. In other embodiments, the gaming devices  104 A- 104 X may communicate with one another and/or the server computers  102  over RF, cable TV, satellite links and the like. 
     In some embodiments, server computers  102  may not be necessary and/or preferred. For example, in one or more embodiments, a stand-alone gaming device such as gaming device  104 A, gaming device  104 B or any of the other gaming devices  104 C- 104 X can implement one or more aspects of the present disclosure. However, it is typical to find multiple EGMs connected to networks implemented with one or more of the different server computers  102  described herein. 
     The server computers  102  may include a central determination gaming system server  106 , a ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) system server  108 , a player tracking system server  110 , a progressive system server  112 , and/or a casino management system server  114 . Gaming devices  104 A- 104 X may include features to enable operation of any or all servers for use by the player and/or operator (e.g., the casino, resort, gaming establishment, tavern, pub, etc.). For example, game outcomes may be generated on a central determination gaming system server  106  and then transmitted over the network to any of a group of remote terminals or remote gaming devices  104 A- 104 X that utilize the game outcomes and display the results to the players. 
     Gaming device  104 A is often of a cabinet construction which may be aligned in rows or banks of similar devices for placement and operation on a casino floor. The gaming device  104 A often includes a main door  154  which provides access to the interior of the cabinet. Gaming device  104 A typically includes a button area or button deck  120  accessible by a player that is configured with input switches or buttons  122 , an access channel for a bill validator  124 , and/or an access channel for a ticket-out printer  126 . 
     In  FIG.  1   , gaming device  104 A is shown as a Relm XL™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. As shown, gaming device  104 A is a reel machine having a gaming display area  118  comprising a number (typically 3 or 5) of mechanical reels  130  with various symbols displayed on them. The reels  130  are independently spun and stopped to show a set of symbols within the gaming display area  118  which may be used to determine an outcome to the game. 
     In many configurations, the gaming machine  104 A may have a main display  128  (e.g., video display monitor) mounted to, or above, the gaming display area  118 . The main display  128  can be a high-resolution LCD, plasma, LED, or OLED panel which may be flat or curved as shown, a cathode ray tube, or other conventional electronically controlled video monitor. 
     In some embodiments, the bill validator  124  may also function as a “ticket-in” reader that allows the player to use a casino issued credit ticket to load credits onto the gaming device  104 A (e.g., in a cashless ticket (“TITO”) system). In such cashless embodiments, the gaming device  104 A may also include a “ticket-out” printer  126  for outputting a credit ticket when a “cash out” button is pressed. Cashless TITO systems are used to generate and track unique bar-codes or other indicators printed on tickets to allow players to avoid the use of bills and coins by loading credits using a ticket reader and cashing out credits using a ticket-out printer  126  on the gaming device  104 A. The gaming machine  104 A can have hardware meters for purposes including ensuring regulatory compliance and monitoring the player credit balance. In addition, there can be additional meters that record the total amount of money wagered on the gaming machine, total amount of money deposited, total amount of money withdrawn, total amount of winnings on gaming device  104 A. 
     In some embodiments, a player tracking card reader  144 , a transceiver for wireless communication with a player&#39;s smartphone, a keypad  146 , and/or an illuminated display  148  for reading, receiving, entering, and/or displaying player tracking information is provided in EGM  104 A. In such embodiments, a game controller within the gaming device  104 A can communicate with the player tracking system server  110  to send and receive player tracking information. 
     Gaming device  104 A may also include a bonus topper wheel  134 . When bonus play is triggered (e.g., by a player achieving a particular outcome or set of outcomes in the primary game), bonus topper wheel  134  is operative to spin and stop with indicator arrow  136  indicating the outcome of the bonus game. Bonus topper wheel  134  is typically used to play a bonus game, but it could also be incorporated into play of the base or primary game. 
     A candle  138  may be mounted on the top of gaming device  104 A and may be activated by a player (e.g., using a switch or one of buttons  122 ) to indicate to operations staff that gaming device  104 A has experienced a malfunction or the player requires service. The candle  138  is also often used to indicate a jackpot has been won and to alert staff that a hand payout of an award may be needed. 
     There may also be one or more information panels  152  which may be a back-lit, silkscreened glass panel with lettering to indicate general game information including, for example, a game denomination (e.g., $0.25 or $1), pay lines, pay tables, and/or various game related graphics. In some embodiments, the information panel(s)  152  may be implemented as an additional video display. 
     Gaming devices  104 A have traditionally also included a handle  132  typically mounted to the side of main cabinet  116  which may be used to initiate game play. 
     Many or all the above described components can be controlled by circuitry (e.g., a gaming controller) housed inside the main cabinet  116  of the gaming device  104 A, the details of which are shown in  FIG.  2 A . 
     Note that not all gaming devices suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure necessarily include top wheels, top boxes, information panels, cashless ticket systems, and/or player tracking systems. Further, some suitable gaming devices have only a single game display that includes only a mechanical set of reels and/or a video display, while others are designed for bar counters or table tops and have displays that face upwards. 
     An alternative example gaming device  104 B illustrated in  FIG.  1    is the Arc™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Note that where possible, reference numerals identifying similar features of the gaming device  104 A embodiment are also identified in the gaming device  104 B embodiment using the same reference numbers. Gaming device  104 B does not include physical reels and instead shows game play functions on main display  128 . An optional topper screen  140  may be used as a secondary game display for bonus play, to show game features or attraction activities while a game is not in play, or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. In some embodiments, topper screen  140  may also or alternatively be used to display progressive jackpot prizes available to a player during play of gaming device  104 B. 
     Example gaming device  104 B includes a main cabinet  116  including a main door  154  which opens to provide access to the interior of the gaming device  104 B. The main or service door  154  is typically used by service personnel to refill the ticket-out printer  126  and collect bills and tickets inserted into the bill validator  124 . The main or service door  154  may also be accessed to reset the machine, verify and/or upgrade the software, and for general maintenance operations. 
     Another example gaming device  104 C shown is the Helix™ model gaming device manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Gaming device  104 C includes a main display  128 A that is in a landscape orientation. Although not illustrated by the front view provided, the landscape display  128 A may have a curvature radius from top to bottom, or alternatively from side to side. In some embodiments, display  128 A is a flat panel display. Main display  128 A is typically used for primary game play while secondary display  128 B is typically used for bonus game play, to show game features or attraction activities while the game is not in play or any other information or media desired by the game designer or operator. In some embodiments, example gaming device  104 C may also include speakers  142  to output various audio such as game sound, background music, etc. 
     Many different types of games, including mechanical slot games, video slot games, video poker, video black jack, video pachinko, keno, bingo, and lottery, may be provided with or implemented within the depicted gaming devices  104 A- 104 C and other similar gaming devices. Each gaming device may also be operable to provide many different games. Games may be differentiated according to themes, sounds, graphics, type of game (e.g., slot game vs. card game vs. game with aspects of skill), denomination, number of paylines, maximum jackpot, progressive or non-progressive, bonus games, and may be deployed for operation in Class 2 or Class 3, etc. 
       FIG.  2 A  is a block diagram depicting exemplary internal electronic components of a gaming device  200  connected to various external systems. All or parts of the gaming device  200  shown could be used to implement any one of the example gaming devices  104 A-X depicted in  FIG.  1   . As shown in  FIG.  2 A , gaming device  200  includes a topper display  216  or another form of a top box (e.g., a topper wheel, a topper screen, etc.) that sits above cabinet  218 . Cabinet  218  or topper display  216  may also house a number of other components which may be used to add features to a game being played on gaming device  200 , including speakers  220 , a ticket printer  222  which prints bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player&#39;s credit value, a ticket reader  224  which reads bar-coded tickets or other media or mechanisms for storing or indicating a player&#39;s credit value, and a player tracking interface  232 . Player tracking interface  232  may include a keypad  226  for entering information, a player tracking display  228  for displaying information (e.g., an illuminated or video display), a card reader  230  for receiving data and/or communicating information to and from media or a device such as a smart phone enabling player tracking.  FIG.  2    also depicts utilizing a ticket printer  222  to print tickets for a TITO system server  108 . Gaming device  200  may further include a bill validator  234 , player-input buttons  236  for player input, cabinet security sensors  238  to detect unauthorized opening of the cabinet  218 , a primary game display  240 , and a secondary game display  242 , each coupled to and operable under the control of game controller  202 . 
     The games available for play on the gaming device  200  are controlled by a game controller  202  that includes one or more processors  204 . Processor  204  represents a general-purpose processor, a specialized processor intended to perform certain functional tasks, or a combination thereof. As an example, processor  204  can be a central processing unit (CPU) that has one or more multi-core processing units and memory mediums (e.g., cache memory) that function as buffers and/or temporary storage for data. Alternatively, processor  204  can be a specialized processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), graphics processing unit (GPU), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), or another type of hardware accelerator. In another example, processor  204  is a system on chip (SoC) that combines and integrates one or more general-purpose processors and/or one or more specialized processors. Although  FIG.  2 A  illustrates that game controller  202  includes a single processor  204 , game controller  202  is not limited to this representation and instead can include multiple processors  204  (e.g., two or more processors). 
       FIG.  2 A  illustrates that processor  204  is operatively coupled to memory  208 . Memory  208  is defined herein as including volatile and nonvolatile memory and other types of non-transitory data storage components. Volatile memory is memory that do not retain data values upon loss of power. Nonvolatile memory is memory that do retain data upon a loss of power. Examples of memory  208  include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, solid-state drives, universal serial bus (USB) flash drives, memory cards accessed via a memory card reader, floppy disks accessed via an associated floppy disk drive, optical discs accessed via an optical disc drive, magnetic tapes accessed via an appropriate tape drive, and/or other memory components, or a combination of any two or more of these memory components. In addition, examples of RAM include static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), and other such devices. Examples of ROM include a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other like memory device. Even though  FIG.  2 A  illustrates that game controller  202  includes a single memory  208 , game controller  202  could include multiple memories  208  for storing program instructions and/or data. 
     Memory  208  can store one or more game programs  206  that provide program instructions and/or data for carrying out various implementations (e.g., game mechanics) described herein. Stated another way, game program  206  represents an executable program stored in any portion or component of memory  208 . In one or more implementations, game program  206  is embodied in the form of source code that includes human-readable statements written in a programming language or machine code that contains numerical instructions recognizable by a suitable execution system, such as a processor  204  in a game controller or other system. Examples of executable programs include: (1) a compiled program that can be translated into machine code in a format that can be loaded into a random access portion of memory  208  and run by processor  204 ; (2) source code that may be expressed in proper format such as object code that is capable of being loaded into a random access portion of memory  208  and executed by processor  204 ; and (3) source code that may be interpreted by another executable program to generate instructions in a random access portion of memory  208  to be executed by processor  204 . 
     Alternatively, game programs  206  can be set up to generate one or more game instances based on instructions and/or data that gaming device  200  exchanges with one or more remote gaming devices, such as a central determination gaming system server  106  (not shown in  FIG.  2 A  but shown in  FIG.  1   ). For purpose of this disclosure, the term “game instance” refers to a play or a round of a game that gaming device  200  presents (e.g., via a user interface (UI)) to a player. The game instance is communicated to gaming device  200  via the network  214  and then displayed on gaming device  200 . For example, gaming device  200  may execute game program  206  as video streaming software that allows the game to be displayed on gaming device  200 . When a game is stored on gaming device  200 , it may be loaded from memory  208  (e.g., from a read only memory (ROM)) or from the central determination gaming system server  106  to memory  208 . 
     Gaming devices, such as gaming device  200 , are highly regulated to ensure fairness and, in many cases, gaming device  200  is operable to award monetary awards (e.g., typically dispensed in the form of a redeemable voucher). Therefore, to satisfy security and regulatory requirements in a gaming environment, hardware and software architectures are implemented in gaming devices  200  that differ significantly from those of general-purpose computers. Adapting general purpose computers to function as gaming devices  200  is not simple or straightforward because of: (1) the regulatory requirements for gaming devices  200 , (2) the harsh environment in which gaming devices  200  operate, (3) security requirements, (4) fault tolerance requirements, and (5) the requirement for additional special purpose componentry enabling functionality of an EGM. These differences require substantial engineering effort with respect to game design implementation, game mechanics, hardware components, and software. 
     One regulatory requirement for games running on gaming device  200  generally involves complying with a certain level of randomness. Typically, gaming jurisdictions mandate that gaming devices  200  satisfy a minimum level of randomness without specifying how a gaming device  200  should achieve this level of randomness. To comply,  FIG.  2 A  illustrates that gaming device  200  could include an RNG  212  that utilizes hardware and/or software to generate RNG outcomes that lack any pattern. The RNG operations are often specialized and non-generic in order to comply with regulatory and gaming requirements. For example, in a slot game, game program  206  can initiate multiple RNG calls to RNG  212  to generate RNG outcomes, where each RNG call and RNG outcome corresponds to an outcome for a reel. In another example, gaming device  200  can be a Class II gaming device where RNG  212  generates RNG outcomes for creating Bingo cards. In one or more implementations, RNG  212  could be one of a set of RNGs operating on gaming device  200 . More generally, an output of the RNG  212  can be the basis on which game outcomes are determined by the game controller  202 . Game developers could vary the degree of true randomness for each RNG (e.g., pseudorandom) and utilize specific RNGs depending on game requirements. The output of the RNG  212  can include a random number or pseudorandom number (either is generally referred to as a “random number”). 
     In  FIG.  2 A , RNG  212  and hardware RNG  244  are shown in dashed lines to illustrate that RNG  212 , hardware RNG  244 , or both can be included in gaming device  200 . In one implementation, instead of including RNG  212 , gaming device  200  could include a hardware RNG  244  that generates RNG outcomes. Analogous to RNG  212 , hardware RNG  244  performs specialized and non-generic operations in order to comply with regulatory and gaming requirements. For example, because of regulation requirements, hardware RNG  244  could be a random number generator that securely produces random numbers for cryptography use. The gaming device  200  then uses the secure random numbers to generate game outcomes for one or more game features. In another implementation, the gaming device  200  could include both hardware RNG  244  and RNG  212 . RNG  212  may utilize the RNG outcomes from hardware RNG  244  as one of many sources of entropy for generating secure random numbers for the game features. 
     Another regulatory requirement for running games on gaming device  200  includes ensuring a certain level of RTP. Similar to the randomness requirement discussed above, numerous gaming jurisdictions also mandate that gaming device  200  provides a minimum level of RTP (e.g., RTP of at least 75%). A game can use one or more lookup tables (also called weighted tables) as part of a technical solution that satisfies regulatory requirements for randomness and RTP. In particular, a lookup table can integrate game features (e.g., trigger events for special modes or bonus games; newly introduced game elements such as extra reels, new symbols, or new cards; stop positions for dynamic game elements such as spinning reels, spinning wheels, or shifting reels; or card selections from a deck) with random numbers generated by one or more RNGs, so as to achieve a given level of volatility for a target level of RTP. (In general, volatility refers to the frequency or probability of an event such as a special mode, payout, etc. For example, for a target level of RTP, a higher-volatility game may have a lower payout most of the time with an occasional bonus having a very high payout, while a lower-volatility game has a steadier payout with more frequent bonuses of smaller amounts.) Configuring a lookup table can involve engineering decisions with respect to how RNG outcomes are mapped to game outcomes for a given game feature, while still satisfying regulatory requirements for RTP. Configuring a lookup table can also involve engineering decisions about whether different game features are combined in a given entry of the lookup table or split between different entries (for the respective game features), while still satisfying regulatory requirements for RTP and allowing for varying levels of game volatility. 
       FIG.  2 A  illustrates that gaming device  200  includes an RNG conversion engine  210  that translates the RNG outcome from RNG  212  to a game outcome presented to a player. To meet a designated RTP, a game developer can set up the RNG conversion engine  210  to utilize one or more lookup tables to translate the RNG outcome to a symbol element, stop position on a reel strip layout, and/or randomly chosen aspect of a game feature. As an example, the lookup tables can regulate a prize payout amount for each RNG outcome and how often the gaming device  200  pays out the prize payout amounts. The RNG conversion engine  210  could utilize one lookup table to map the RNG outcome to a game outcome displayed to a player and a second lookup table as a pay table for determining the prize payout amount for each game outcome. The mapping between the RNG outcome to the game outcome controls the frequency in hitting certain prize payout amounts. 
       FIG.  2 A  also depicts that gaming device  200  is connected over network  214  to player tracking system server  110 . Player tracking system server  110  may be, for example, an OASIS® system manufactured by Aristocrat® Technologies, Inc. Player tracking system server  110  is used to track play (e.g. amount wagered, games played, time of play and/or other quantitative or qualitative measures) for individual players so that an operator may reward players in a loyalty program. The player may use the player tracking interface  232  to access his/her account information, activate free play, and/or request various information. Player tracking or loyalty programs seek to reward players for their play and help build brand loyalty to the gaming establishment. The rewards typically correspond to the player&#39;s level of patronage (e.g., to the player&#39;s playing frequency and/or total amount of game plays at a given casino). Player tracking rewards may be complimentary and/or discounted meals, lodging, entertainment and/or additional play. Player tracking information may be combined with other information that is now readily obtainable by a casino management system. 
     When a player wishes to play the gaming device  200 , he/she can insert cash or a ticket voucher through a coin acceptor (not shown) or bill validator  234  to establish a credit balance on the gaming device. The credit balance is used by the player to place wagers on instances of the game and to receive credit awards based on the outcome of winning instances. The credit balance is decreased by the amount of each wager and increased upon a win. The player can add additional credits to the balance at any time. The player may also optionally insert a loyalty club card into the card reader  230 . During the game, the player views with one or more UIs, the game outcome on one or more of the primary game display  240  and secondary game display  242 . Other game and prize information may also be displayed. 
     For each game instance, a player may make selections, which may affect play of the game. For example, the player may vary the total amount wagered by selecting the amount bet per line and the number of lines played. In many games, the player is asked to initiate or select options during course of game play (such as spinning a wheel to begin a bonus round or select various items during a feature game). The player may make these selections using the player-input buttons  236 , the primary game display  240  which may be a touch screen, or using some other device which enables a player to input information into the gaming device  200 . 
     During certain game events, the gaming device  200  may display visual and auditory effects that can be perceived by the player. These effects add to the excitement of a game, which makes a player more likely to enjoy the playing experience. Auditory effects include various sounds that are projected by the speakers  220 . Visual effects include flashing lights, strobing lights or other patterns displayed from lights on the gaming device  200  or from lights behind the information panel  152  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     When the player is done, he/she cashes out the credit balance (typically by pressing a cash out button to receive a ticket from the ticket printer  222 ). The ticket may be “cashed-in” for money or inserted into another machine to establish a credit balance for play. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  can include or be coupled to one or more wireless transmitters, receivers, and/or transceivers (not shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2 A ) that communicate (e.g., Bluetooth® or other near-field communication technology) with one or more mobile devices to perform a variety of wireless operations in a casino environment. Examples of wireless operations in a casino environment include detecting the presence of mobile devices, performing credit, points, comps, or other marketing or hard currency transfers, establishing wagering sessions, and/or providing a personalized casino-based experience using a mobile application. In one implementation, to perform these wireless operations, a wireless transmitter or transceiver initiates a secure wireless connection between a gaming device  104 A- 104 X and  200  and a mobile device. After establishing a secure wireless connection between the gaming device  104 A- 104 X and  200  and the mobile device, the wireless transmitter or transceiver does not send and/or receive application data to and/or from the mobile device. Rather, the mobile device communicates with gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  using another wireless connection (e.g., WiFi® or cellular network). In another implementation, a wireless transceiver establishes a secure connection to directly communicate with the mobile device. The mobile device and gaming device  104 A- 104 X and  200  sends and receives data utilizing the wireless transceiver instead of utilizing an external network. For example, the mobile device would perform digital wallet transactions by directly communicating with the wireless transceiver. In one or more implementations, a wireless transmitter could broadcast data received by one or more mobile devices without establishing a pairing connection with the mobile devices. 
     Although  FIGS.  1  and  2 A  illustrate specific implementations of a gaming device (e.g., gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200 ), the disclosure is not limited to those implementations shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2   . For example, not all gaming devices suitable for implementing implementations of the present disclosure necessarily include top wheels, top boxes, information panels, cashless ticket systems, and/or player tracking systems. Further, some suitable gaming devices have only a single game display that includes only a mechanical set of reels and/or a video display, while others are designed for bar counters or tabletops and have displays that face upwards. Gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  may also include other processors that are not separately shown. Using  FIG.  2 A  as an example, gaming device  200  could include display controllers (not shown in  FIG.  2 A ) configured to receive video input signals or instructions to display images on game displays  240  and  242 . Alternatively, such display controllers may be integrated into the game controller  202 . The use and discussion of  FIGS.  1  and  2    are examples to facilitate ease of description and explanation. 
       FIG.  2 B  depicts a casino gaming environment according to one example. In this example, the casino  251  includes banks  252  of EGMs  104 . In this example, each bank  252  of EGMs  104  includes a corresponding gaming signage system  254  (also shown in  FIG.  2 A ). According to this implementation, the casino  251  also includes mobile gaming devices  256 , which are also configured to present wagering games in this example. The mobile gaming devices  256  may, for example, include tablet devices, cellular phones, smart phones and/or other handheld devices. In this example, the mobile gaming devices  256  are configured for communication with one or more other devices in the casino  251 , including but not limited to one or more of the server computers  102 , via wireless access points  258 . 
     According to some examples, the mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured for stand-alone determination of game outcomes. However, in some alternative implementations the mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured to receive game outcomes from another device, such as the central determination gaming system server  106 , one of the EGMs  104 , etc. 
     Some mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured to accept monetary credits from a credit or debit card, via a wireless interface (e.g., via a wireless payment app), via tickets, via a patron casino account, etc. However, some mobile gaming devices  256  may not be configured to accept monetary credits via a credit or debit card. Some mobile gaming devices  256  may include a ticket reader and/or a ticket printer whereas some mobile gaming devices  256  may not, depending on the particular implementation. 
     In some implementations, the casino  251  may include one or more kiosks  260  that are configured to facilitate monetary transactions involving the mobile gaming devices  256 , which may include cash out and/or cash in transactions. The kiosks  260  may be configured for wired and/or wireless communication with the mobile gaming devices  256 . The kiosks  260  may be configured to accept monetary credits from casino patrons  262  and/or to dispense monetary credits to casino patrons  262  via cash, a credit or debit card, via a wireless interface (e.g., via a wireless payment app), via tickets, etc. According to some examples, the kiosks  260  may be configured to accept monetary credits from a casino patron and to provide a corresponding amount of monetary credits to a mobile gaming device  256  for wagering purposes, e.g., via a wireless link such as a near-field communications link. In some such examples, when a casino patron  262  is ready to cash out, the casino patron  262  may select a cash out option provided by a mobile gaming device  256 , which may include a real button or a virtual button (e.g., a button provided via a graphical user interface) in some instances. In some such examples, the mobile gaming device  256  may send a “cash out” signal to a kiosk  260  via a wireless link in response to receiving a “cash out” indication from a casino patron. The kiosk  260  may provide monetary credits to the casino patron  262  corresponding to the “cash out” signal, which may be in the form of cash, a credit ticket, a credit transmitted to a financial account corresponding to the casino patron, etc. 
     In some implementations, a cash-in process and/or a cash-out process may be facilitated by the TITO system server  108 . For example, the TITO system server  108  may control, or at least authorize, ticket-in and ticket-out transactions that involve a mobile gaming device  256  and/or a kiosk  260 . 
     Some mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured for receiving and/or transmitting player loyalty information. For example, some mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured for wireless communication with the player tracking system server  110 . Some mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured for receiving and/or transmitting player loyalty information via wireless communication with a patron&#39;s player loyalty card, a patron&#39;s smartphone, etc. 
     According to some implementations, a mobile gaming device  256  may be configured to provide safeguards that prevent the mobile gaming device  256  from being used by an unauthorized person. For example, some mobile gaming devices  256  may include one or more biometric sensors and may be configured to receive input via the biometric sensor(s) to verify the identity of an authorized patron. Some mobile gaming devices  256  may be configured to function only within a predetermined or configurable area, such as a casino gaming area. 
       FIG.  2 C  is a diagram that shows examples of components of a system for providing online gaming according to some aspects of the present disclosure. As with other figures presented in this disclosure, the numbers, types and arrangements of gaming devices shown in  FIG.  2 C  are merely shown by way of example. In this example, various gaming devices, including but not limited to end user devices (EUDs)  264   a ,  264   b  and  264   c  are capable of communication via one or more networks  417 . The networks  417  may, for example, include one or more cellular telephone networks, the Internet, etc. In this example, the EUDs  264   a  and  264   b  are mobile devices: according to this example the EUD  264   a  is a tablet device and the EUD  264   b  is a smart phone. In this implementation, the EUD  264   c  is a laptop computer that is located within a residence  266  at the time depicted in  FIG.  2 C . Accordingly, in this example the hardware of EUDs is not specifically configured for online gaming, although each EUD is configured with software for online gaming. For example, each EUD may be configured with a web browser. Other implementations may include other types of EUD, some of which may be specifically configured for online gaming. 
     In this example, a gaming data center  276  includes various devices that are configured to provide online wagering games via the networks  417 . The gaming data center  276  is capable of communication with the networks  417  via the gateway  272 . In this example, switches  278  and routers  280  are configured to provide network connectivity for devices of the gaming data center  276 , including storage devices  282   a , servers  284   a  and one or more workstations  570   a . The servers  284   a  may, for example, be configured to provide access to a library of games for online game play. In some examples, code for executing at least some of the games may initially be stored on one or more of the storage devices  282   a . The code may be subsequently loaded onto a server  284   a  after selection by a player via an EUD and communication of that selection from the EUD via the networks  417 . The server  284   a  onto which code for the selected game has been loaded may provide the game according to selections made by a player and indicated via the player&#39;s EUD. In other examples, code for executing at least some of the games may initially be stored on one or more of the servers  284   a . Although only one gaming data center  276  is shown in  FIG.  2 C , some implementations may include multiple gaming data centers  276 . 
     In this example, a financial institution data center  270  is also configured for communication via the networks  417 . Here, the financial institution data center  270  includes servers  284   b , storage devices  282   b , and one or more workstations  286   b . According to this example, the financial institution data center  270  is configured to maintain financial accounts, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, loan accounts, etc. In some implementations one or more of the authorized users  274   a - 274   c  may maintain at least one financial account with the financial institution that is serviced via the financial institution data center  270 . 
     According to some implementations, the gaming data center  276  may be configured to provide online wagering games in which money may be won or lost. According to some such implementations, one or more of the servers  284   a  may be configured to monitor player credit balances, which may be expressed in game credits, in currency units, or in any other appropriate manner. In some implementations, the server(s)  284   a  may be configured to obtain financial credits from and/or provide financial credits to one or more financial institutions, according to a player&#39;s “cash in” selections, wagering game results and a player&#39;s “cash out” instructions. According to some such implementations, the server(s)  284   a  may be configured to electronically credit or debit the account of a player that is maintained by a financial institution, e.g., an account that is maintained via the financial institution data center  270 . The server(s)  284   a  may, in some examples, be configured to maintain an audit record of such transactions. 
     In some alternative implementations, the gaming data center  276  may be configured to provide online wagering games for which credits may not be exchanged for cash or the equivalent. In some such examples, players may purchase game credits for online game play, but may not “cash out” for monetary credit after a gaming session. Moreover, although the financial institution data center  270  and the gaming data center  276  include their own servers and storage devices in this example, in some examples the financial institution data center  270  and/or the gaming data center  276  may use offsite “cloud-based” servers and/or storage devices. In some alternative examples, the financial institution data center  270  and/or the gaming data center  276  may rely entirely on cloud-based servers. 
     One or more types of devices in the gaming data center  276  (or elsewhere) may be capable of executing middleware, e.g., for data management and/or device communication. Authentication information, player tracking information, etc., including but not limited to information obtained by EUDs  264  and/or other information regarding authorized users of EUDs  264  (including but not limited to the authorized users  274   a - 274   c ), may be stored on storage devices  282  and/or servers  284 . Other game-related information and/or software, such as information and/or software relating to leaderboards, players currently playing a game, game themes, game-related promotions, game competitions, etc., also may be stored on storage devices  282  and/or servers  284 . In some implementations, some such game-related software may be available as “apps” and may be downloadable (e.g., from the gaming data center  276 ) by authorized users. 
     In some examples, authorized users and/or entities (such as representatives of gaming regulatory authorities) may obtain gaming-related information via the gaming data center  276 . One or more other devices (such EUDs  264  or devices of the gaming data center  276 ) may act as intermediaries for such data feeds. Such devices may, for example, be capable of applying data filtering algorithms, executing data summary and/or analysis software, etc. In some implementations, data filtering, summary and/or analysis software may be available as “apps” and downloadable by authorized users. 
       FIG.  3    illustrates, in block diagram form, an embodiment of a game processing architecture  300  that implements a game processing pipeline for the play of a game in accordance with various embodiments described herein. As shown in  FIG.  3   , the gaming processing pipeline starts with having a UI system  302  receive one or more player inputs for the game instance. Based on the player input(s), the UI system  302  generates and sends one or more RNG calls to a game processing backend system  314 . Game processing backend system  314  then processes the RNG calls with RNG engine  316  to generate one or more RNG outcomes. The RNG outcomes are then sent to the RNG conversion engine  320  to generate one or more game outcomes for the UI system  302  to display to a player. The game processing architecture  300  can implement the game processing pipeline using a gaming device, such as gaming devices  104 A- 104 X and  200  shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2   , respectively. Alternatively, portions of the gaming processing architecture  300  can implement the game processing pipeline using a gaming device and one or more remote gaming devices, such as central determination gaming system server  106  shown in  FIG.  1   . 
     The UI system  302  includes one or more UIs that a player can interact with. The UI system  302  could include one or more game play UIs  304 , one or more bonus game play UIs  308 , and one or more multiplayer UIs  312 , where each UI type includes one or more mechanical UIs and/or graphical UIs (GUIs). In other words, game play UI  304 , bonus game play UI  308 , and the multiplayer UI  312  may utilize a variety of UI elements, such as mechanical UI elements (e.g., physical “spin” button or mechanical reels) and/or GUI elements (e.g., virtual reels shown on a video display or a virtual button deck) to receive player inputs and/or present game play to a player. Using  FIG.  3    as an example, the different UI elements are shown as game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N and bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N. 
     The game play UI  304  represents a UI that a player typically interfaces with for a base game. During a game instance of a base game, the game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N (e.g., GUI elements depicting one or more virtual reels) are shown and/or made available to a user. In a subsequent game instance, the UI system  302  could transition out of the base game to one or more bonus games. The bonus game play UI  308  represents a UI that utilizes bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N for a player to interact with and/or view during a bonus game. In one or more embodiments, at least some of the game play UI element  306 A- 306 N are similar to the bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N. In other embodiments, the game play UI element  306 A- 306 N can differ from to the bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N. 
       FIG.  3    also illustrates that UI system  302  could include a multiplayer UI  312  purposed for game play that differ or is separate from the typical base game. For example, multiplayer UI  312  could be set up to receive player inputs and/or presents game play information relating to a tournament mode. When a gaming device transitions from a primary game mode that presents the base game to a tournament mode, a single gaming device is linked and synchronized to other gaming devices to generate a tournament outcome. For example, multiple RNG engines  316  corresponding to each gaming device could be collectively linked to determine a tournament outcome. To enhance a player&#39;s gaming experience, tournament mode can modify and synchronize sound, music, reel spin speed, and/or other operations of the gaming devices according to the tournament game play. After tournament game play ends, operators can switch back the gaming device from tournament mode to a primary game mode to present the base game. Although  FIG.  3    does not explicitly depict that multiplayer UI  312  includes UI elements, multiplayer UI  312  could also include one or more multiplayer UI elements. 
     Based on the player inputs, the UI system  302  could generate RNG calls to a game processing backend system  314 . As an example, the UI system  302  could use one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) to generate the RNG calls. To process the RNG calls, the RNG engine  316  could utilize gaming RNG  318  and/or non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N. Gaming RNG  318  corresponds to RNG  212  shown in  FIG.  2   . As previously discussed with reference to  FIG.  2   , gaming RNG  318  often performs specialized and non-generic operations that comply with regulatory and/or game requirements. For example, because of regulation requirements, gaming RNG  318  could be a cryptographic random or pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) (e.g., Fortuna PRNG) that securely produces random numbers for one or more game features. To generate random numbers, gaming RNG  318  could collect random data from various sources of entropy, such as from an operating system (OS). Alternatively, non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N may not be cryptographically secure and/or be computational less expensive. Non-gaming RNGS  319 A- 319 N can, thus, be used to generate outcomes for non-gaming purposes. As an example, non-gaming RNGs  319 A- 319 N can generate random numbers for such as generating random messages that appear on the gaming device. The RNG conversion engine  320  processes each RNG outcome from RNG engine  316  and converts the RNG outcome to a UI outcome that is feedback to the UI system  302 . With reference to  FIG.  2   , RNG conversion engine  320  corresponds to RNG conversion engine  210  used for game play. As previously described, RNG conversion engine  320  translates the RNG outcome from the RNG  212  to a game outcome presented to a player. RNG conversion engine  320  utilizes one or more lookup tables  322 A- 322 N to regulate a prize payout amount for each RNG outcome and how often the gaming device pays out the derived prize payout amounts. In one example, the RNG conversion engine  320  could utilize one lookup table to map the RNG outcome to a game outcome displayed to a player and a second lookup table as a pay table for determining the prize payout amount for each game outcome. In this example, the mapping between the RNG outcome to the game outcome controls the frequency in hitting certain prize payout amounts. Different lookup tables could be utilized depending on the different game modes, for example, a base game versus a bonus game. 
     After generating the UI outcome, the game processing backend system  314  sends the UI outcome to the UI system  302 . Examples of UI outcomes are symbols to display on a video reel or reel stops for a mechanical reel. In one example, if the UI outcome is for a base game, the UI system  302  updates one or more game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N, such as symbols, for the game play UI  304 . In another example, if the UI outcome is for a bonus game, the UI system could update one or more bonus game play UI elements  310 A- 310 N (e.g., symbols) for the bonus game play UI  308 . In response to the updating the appropriate UI, the player may subsequently provide additional player inputs to initiate a subsequent game instance that progresses through the game processing pipeline. 
       FIG.  4    illustrates a view of an exemplary user interface  400  for an EGM with an enhanced RTP mode in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. In the exemplary embodiment, the user interface  400  may be associated with one of gaming devices  104 A- 104 X (shown in  FIG.  1   ) and gaming device  200  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  400  is similar to game play UI  304  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In some embodiments, user interface  400  may be similar to bonus game play UI  308  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  400  is a part of UI system  302  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  400  includes a plurality of columns  402   a - e , each of which displays a plurality of symbol display positions  404 . Symbol display positions  404   a - r  may be similar to game play UI elements  306 A- 306 N (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In some embodiments, each column  402  may visually be depicted as a reel of a slot game. Further, each symbol display position may represent a symbol display position that corresponds to a symbol displayed on the reel of the slot game. 
     The user interface  400  also includes an enhanced RTP mode tracker  406  (also known as a frenzy mode tracker  406 ). The enhanced RTP mode tracker  406  includes a plurality of tracking elements  408 A- 408 E. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  4   , the tracking elements  408  are envelopes and coins, where tracking elements  408 A and  408 B have been activated (with a coin in the envelope) and tracking elements  408 C-E have not been activated yet (no coins in the envelope), where each coin represents a step towards activating the enhanced RTP mode. At the point shown in  FIG.  4   , the player is two of the five steps towards activating the enhanced RTP mode. In the exemplary embodiment, when a specific symbol display position  404  or specific plurality of symbol display positions  404  appear in the user interface  400 , another tracking element  408  is activated in the enhanced RTP mode tracker  406 . For example, if a coin appears in the symbol display positions  404 , then a tracking element  408  (such as tracking element  408 C) is activated. In the coin embodiment shown herein, when a tracking element  408  is activated, a new coin is displayed in a previously unactivated position (such as  408 C) on the enhanced RTP mode tracker  406 . In some embodiments, when the activation symbol(s) appears in symbol display positions  404 , more than one tracking element  408  is activated. In these embodiments, the number of tracking elements  408  activated may be based on the activation symbol(s) or the number of tracking elements  408  activated may be based on one or more random numbers generated by the game processing backend system  314  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). 
     In the embodiment shown herein, there are five tracking elements  408 A- 408 E. When all five tracking elements  408 A- 408 E have been activated, then the enhanced RTP mode is activated. In other embodiments, there may be more or less tracking elements  408 . In other embodiments, the tracking elements  408  may be different objects than envelopes and coins. Furthermore, in some other embodiments, the tracking elements  408  may be different. For example, in one embodiment, the different tracking elements  408  may be different suites, such as from a deck of cards. 
     In various embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode is a mode in which the player wagers the same amount at the same denomination as prior to the enhanced RTP mode. 
     In at least one embodiment, the EGM supports several enhanced RTP modes.  FIG.  5    illustrates a first enhanced RTP mode.  FIG.  6    illustrates a second, similar enhanced RTP mode.  FIGS.  7  and  8    illustrate a different type of enhanced RTP mode based on guaranteed wilds rather than an increased number of rows. 
       FIG.  5    illustrates a process  500  for executing a game with an enhanced RTP mode on an EGM in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. In the exemplary embodiment, process  500  may be associated with one of gaming devices  104 A- 104 X (shown in  FIG.  1   ) and gaming device  200  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). In these embodiments, process  500  may be executed by the game controller  202  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, at block  502 , the game controller  202  receives input from the player to initiate play. In some embodiment, the game controller  202  receives this input through a user interface device such as one or more buttons  236 , the primary game display  240 , and the secondary game display  242  (all shown in  FIG.  2   ). In various embodiments, prior to being able to initiate play, a player may have to establish a credit balance on gaming device  200 . The player may make a transaction to deposit credits on the gaming device  200 , be inserting a currency bill or coin via an input mechanism such as bill validator  234 , inserting a ticket that represents credits via ticket reader  224 , or electronically depositing credits through electronically initiating a transaction in conjunction with one or more of the casino management server  114 , TITO server  108  or player tracking server  110 . 
     The game controller  202  determines the base game outcome symbol display positions at block  504 . In various embodiments, game controller  202  determines the base game outcome by generating one or more random numbers via RNG engine  316 . Game controller  202  uses the generated random numbers to select reel stop positions or any other way to select symbols for symbol display positions  404 . In other embodiments, game controller  202  may receive an outcome from a central server, such as a bingo server or a central determination server and use the outcome to generate symbols for symbol display positions  404 . 
     In various embodiments, game controller  202  determines if symbol display positions  404  form symbol combinations that are stored in a paytable in memory  208 . Various symbol combinations may have corresponding award amounts associated with them in the paytable. Game controller  202  may determine an award amount based on a sum of the one or more award amounts for the symbol combinations formed by symbol display positions  404 . 
     The game controller  202  determines if a free spin trigger is present in the symbol display positions  404 , at block  506 . In various embodiments, the free spin trigger may be a symbol or symbol combination formed by symbol display positions  404 . In some embodiments, the free spin trigger may be a random determination by RNG engine  316  to trigger the free spin game. If the free spin trigger is present, then the game controller  202  may initiate play of the awarded free spins at normal mode, at  508 . In some embodiments, the game controller  202  returns to block  502  after the free spin play. In other embodiments, the game controller  202  continues to block  510 . 
     The game controller  202  determines, at block  510 , if an enhanced RTP mode element is present in the plurality of symbol display positions  404 . If not, the game controller  202  returns to the base game play at block  502 . If the plurality of symbol display positions  404  include an enhanced RTP mode element, then the game controller  202  activates one or more tracking elements  408 , at block  512 . The game controller  202  may determine if the enhanced RTP trigger has been met, such as the activation of all of the tracking elements  408 A-E, at block  514 . If not, the game controller  202  returns to the base game play at block  502 . If all of the tracking elements  408 A-E have been activated, then the game controller  202  activates the enhanced RTP mode. In some embodiments, the player receives a number of enhanced RTP mode plays based on the number of activated tracking elements  408 . In various embodiments, enhanced RTP model elements collected during game play persist from one play to the next. In some of these embodiments, the elements persist indefinitely until the enhanced RTP mode is triggered. In some of these embodiments, the elements persist for a predetermined event, such as until a cash out event, until a predetermined number of wagers have been made, or randomly determined event. In certain embodiments, each element has a predetermined expiration threshold, whereby, after the threshold, the accumulated element expires. In various embodiments, elements that expire are removed from the tracking element display. 
     In various embodiments, enhanced RTP mode may be presented visually to the player. In other embodiments, enhanced RTP mode is not visually distinguished from regular game play as represented in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG.  4   . In some of these embodiments, enhanced RTP mode may use a pay table that provides a higher RTP. In some of these embodiments, enhanced RTP mode may employ one or more of (i) increased award amounts for existing symbol combinations; (ii) increased symbols combinations that provide a payout (e.g. paying out on a 2 of a kind instead of requiring at least a 3 of a kind to win an award); (iii) increasing the frequency of certain symbols landing; (iv) increasing the amount of wild symbols on the reel strips; (v) adding sticky wilds to symbol display positions  404 ; (vi) providing a different reel strip set with more symbols, or higher paying symbols; (vii) increasing the number of paylines; or (viii) increasing the number of symbol display positions by increasing reel height for one or more reels; (ix) adding a right to left pay evaluation to a left to right pay evaluation.  FIG.  6    depicts one exemplary view of the user interface to implement an enhanced RTP mode with increased reel height for reels 2, 3, and 4, in accordance with various embodiments. 
     Further, in various embodiments, more than one play of the enhanced RTP mode may be provided. The quantity of play may be predetermined, randomly determined, based on the quantity of enhanced RTP mode elements, wager level, or combinations thereof. 
     In the enhanced RTP mode, the game controller  202  may receive an input from the player to initiate play of the enhanced RTP mode, at  516 . In various embodiments, a wager is required to play the enhanced RTP mode. The wager amount may be the same as the wager amount before the enhanced RTP mode was activated. In certain embodiments, the player may choose to not wager at the enhanced RTP mode and may choose to return to the base wager. The control may then return to block  502 . If the player choose to make a wager in the enhanced RTP mode, game controller  202  may determine an outcome for a play of the enhanced RTP mode at  518 . 
     The game controller  202  determines the enhanced RTP mode outcome and then evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404 . Game controller generates an outcome by selecting symbols for symbol display positions based on random numbers from RNG engine  316 . The selected symbols may be compared to an enhanced RTP pay table to determine if any symbol combinations formed are eligible for awards. As discussed above, an enhanced RTP paytable may be used to determine symbol combinations and award amounts. 
     The game controller  202  determines if a free spin trigger condition exists in the outcome of the enhanced RTP mode play. In various embodiments, one or more free spin triggers may be present in the plurality of symbol display positions  404  to trigger the free spin mode. In the example of  FIG.  6   , where the enhanced RTP mode is played with reels 2-4 having more symbol display positions than in the regular game play mode, the extra symbol positions due to the extended reel height are included in the symbol display positions  404 . In various embodiments If there are free spin triggers present, the game controller  202  initiates play of those free spins in the enhanced RTP mode at  522 . Free spins played in the enhanced RTP mode differ from any free spin played in the normal mode, as the outcome of the free spins in the enhanced RTP mode is based on the enhanced RTP as compared to the normal RTP. Further, in certain embodiments, the quantity of free spins provided in the enhanced RTP mode may be greater than the quantity of spins provided in the normal mode, to further enhance the RTP. In some embodiments, the quantity may be the same. Further, in some embodiments, the quantity of free spins for play of the free spin bonus game for each of the normal mode and the enhanced RTP mode may be predetermined, randomly determined, based on one or more trigger conditions, such as quantity of triggering symbols, etc. 
     After completion of play of the enhanced RTP free spins or after determination that a free spin trigger condition does not exist, game controller  202  determines if there are any enhanced RTP mode plays remaining at  524 . If there are, then the process  500  returns to block  516 . If not, then the game controller returns to base game play at block  502 . 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a view of the user interface  600  during an enhanced RTP mode in accordance with one embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the user interface  600  may be associated with one of gaming devices  104 A- 104 X (shown in  FIG.  1   ) and gaming device  200  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  600  is similar to game play UI  304  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In some embodiments, user interface  600  may be similar to bonus game play UI  308  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  600  is a part of UI system  302  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  600  displays the enhanced RTP mode with the three middle columns  602   b - d  having been increased in size by two additional rows  604   a - b . The two additional rows  604   a - b  increase the RTP of the game since there are more paylines (if the game is a payline evaluation), symbol combination for ReelPower wins, or scatter wins, which increases the probability a winning combination of symbols. In some embodiments, the game controller  202  evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404  based on the number of symbols appearing in the play area of the user interface  600  to determine awards. In other embodiments, game controller  202  evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404  based on one or more pay lines. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, the number of plays in the enhanced RTP mode is equal to the number of tracking elements  608   a - 608   e . For example, as shown in  FIG.  6   , there are five tracking elements  608   a - 608   e . When all five tracking elements  608   a - 608   e  are activated, then the enhanced RTP mode is activated and the user interface increases three of the columns  602  by two rows  604 . In the exemplary embodiment, as each play is used, a tracking element  608  is deactivated, to visually depict to the player the number of plays of the enhanced RTP mode remaining. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  6   , the player has all five plays available. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, plays of the enhanced RTP mode require a wager for each play of the enhanced RTP mode. For example, 5 plays (e.g., spins or hands) of the enhanced RTP mode may be triggered after five out of five enhanced RTP elements have been collected. For each of those 5 plays, a wager input is required for that play. In the exemplary embodiment, the amount of the wager is the same for each of the 5 plays. For example, the player bets 3 credits for each of the 5 plays. Further, the wager may be the same as the amount wagered immediately prior to the play of the enhanced RTP mode. If during any of the 5 plays, a trigger condition activates a bonus game, such as a free spin game, then those free spins are performed in the enhanced RTP mode. For example, the player is awarded 5 plays in the enhanced RTP mode during base game play. The player bets 3 credits for the first play of the enhanced RTP mode. During the first play, the player activates a bonus game which awards 8 free plays in the bonus game. The bonus game activates during the enhanced RTP mode and the 8 free plays are played using the extra two rows  604  of the enhanced RTP mode. Once the bonus game is finished, the player returns to the base game enhanced RTP mode and completes the 4 remaining plays in the enhanced RTP mode. In the exemplary embodiment, the bonus game is activated in the same manner during regular base game play and the enhanced RTP mode base game play. In other embodiment, the enhanced RTP mode may provide additional methods for activating the bonus game. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, the game controller  202  tracks the progress to the enhanced RTP mode based on wager level. In other words, each wager level has a corresponding progress for the enhanced RTP mode. For example, if the base game is configured for five different levels of wager amount (e.g., from one credit to five credits), game controller  2020  also tracks the progress towards the enhanced RTP mode for each of the five different wager levels. If the player switches from one wager level to a different level, tracking for the enhanced RTP mode also switches to the new mode. For example, if the player is playing at the one credit level of play, then any elements in the game outcome are tracked the progress towards the one credit level&#39;s enhanced RTP mode. When the enhanced RTP mode is activated, the player may only bet one credit for each play awarded in that mode. The player may not activate the enhanced RTP mode playing at one credit a play and then increase their bet to five credits when the enhanced RTP mode is activated. 
     Furthermore, in some embodiments, the progress towards the enhanced RTP mode is persistent for the EGM. For the purposes of this disclosure, persistent means continuing to exist or endure over a prolonged period. In these embodiments, the EGM does not reset the progress to the enhanced RTP mode for any of the wager levels when the player changes or if the game is not being actively played. For example, a first player may play on the EGM and earns two elements for the enhanced RTP mode. The first player may leave the game at some point. At a later point a different player may then start playing the game on the EGM. The EGM already has the two elements for the enhanced RTP mode. The second player may then collect three more elements for the enhanced RTP mode and activate the enhanced RTP mode. 
     In some embodiments, the player is not required to play all of the enhanced RTP mode plays. For example if the player does not have sufficient credit to play all of those plays or wishes to allow a friend or spouse to play the enhanced RTP mode plays, the player may cease play at the EGM. The next player at the EGM may then play the remaining enhanced RTP mode plays. 
     In various embodiments, the progress towards the enhanced RTP mode and the quantity of plays in the enhanced RTP mode are personal to the player. That this is progress may be stored in a player tracking account, or such, and be retrieved at a different gaming machine, or same gaming machine at a later time, where the player uses their player tracking account. When a player ends a play session, this information may then be stored on their account for later retrieval. 
       FIG.  7    illustrates a further view of the user interface  700  during another enhanced RTP mode in accordance with another embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the user interface  700  may be associated with one of gaming devices  104 A- 104 X (shown in  FIG.  1   ) and gaming device  200  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  600  is similar to game play UI  304  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In some embodiments, user interface  600  may be similar to bonus game play UI  308  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  600  is a part of UI system  302  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  700  displays the enhanced RTP mode with the three middle columns  402   b - d  increasing in size by four additional rows  704   a - d . The four additional rows  704   a - d  increase the probability of the player receiving a winning combination of symbols, due to the increased number of symbol combinations that are possible with the increased rows. In some embodiments, the game controller  202  evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404  based on the number of symbols appearing in the play area of the user interface  700  to determine player awards. In other embodiments, game controller  202  evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404  based on one or more pay lines. 
     In some embodiments, the player enters one of the two enhanced RTP modes shown in  FIGS.  6  and  7    randomly upon completing progress to the enhanced RTP mode. For example, after the trigger condition for the enhanced RTP mode has been met (such as collection of the tracking elements  408 ), a random determination may be made as to which enhanced RTP mode is to be displayed and provided. In certain embodiments, the random determination is completely random (equally weighted), whereas in other embodiments, the random determination may be weighted. For example, a weight of 75% may be assigned to the enhanced RTP mode as shown in  FIG.  6    and a weight of 25% may be assigned to the enhanced RTP mode as shown in  FIG.  7   . In some embodiments, there may be more than two enhanced RTP modes. In some of these embodiments, one or more of the enhanced RTP modes may be different than one or more of the other enhanced RTP modes, such that they may use a different mechanism (than using increased rows for one or more columns) to enhance the RTP. 
     In some embodiments, the progress to the two or more different enhanced RTP modes may be tracked separately. In some embodiments, each mode may have its own collection elements. For example, a there may be a red collection element that is tracking towards the enhanced RTP mode as shown in  FIG.  6    and a gold collection element that is tracking towards the enhanced RTP mode as shown in  FIG.  7   . In some embodiments, there may be some elements that are common for the two or mode modes and some elements that are specific for one or more modes. In some embodiments, while one enhanced RTP mode is being played, collection elements for one or more of the other modes may still be collected and if triggered, the second enhanced RTP mode may add to the first enhanced RTP mode. 
     In some embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode that is provided to the player for play may depend on a wager amount of the player. For example, the enhanced RTP mode of  FIG.  6    may be available for all wager levels, whereas the enhanced RTP mode of  FIG.  7    may only be available at a higher wager level. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a view of another exemplary user interface  800  for an EGM with an enhanced RTP mode in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure. In the exemplary embodiment, the user interface  800  may be associated with one of gaming devices  104 A- 104 X (shown in  FIG.  1   ) and gaming device  200  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  800  is similar to game play UI  304  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In some embodiments, user interface  800  may be similar to bonus game play UI  308  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  800  is a part of UI system  302  (shown in  FIG.  3   ). 
     In this embodiment, the enhanced RTP mode provides the player with one or more guaranteed wilds for each spin during the enhanced RTP mode. Similar to the enhanced RTP mode described above, the player has to perform a series of steps to reach the enhanced RTP mode, such as collect a series of coins (e.g., tracking elements  408 ). For each play of the enhanced RTP mode, one or more symbol display positions  404  are replaced with a wild. In some embodiments, these wild elements appear before the spin begins, but after the player has initiated the spin. In other embodiments, the wild elements appear after the spin has been initiated (while the reels are still spinning or after they are stopped). For each play of the enhanced RTP mode, the number of wild symbols being added may be randomly determined, selected from a weighted table, or may be predetermined. 
     In some embodiments, the game controller  202  evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404  based on the number of symbols appearing in the play area of the user interface  800  to determine player awards. In other embodiments, game controller  202  evaluates the plurality of symbol display positions  404  based on one or more pay lines. 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a view of the user interface  900  during a variation of the enhanced RTP mode shown in  FIG.  8   . Each of the tracking elements  408  shown in  FIG.  9    includes a value. In this embodiment, each one of those numbers represents a value, such a as a number of credits or a multiplier. During play of normal mode, tracking elements appearing in symbol display positions  404  may include numbers that represent credits or multipliers. Those numbers are then represented along with the collection elements  908   a - e . In some embodiments, instead of numbers, there might be another modifier such as a ‘free spin’, ‘extra wilds’, etc. After all collection elements  908   a - e  have been accumulated, play of the enhanced RTP mode begins. As shown in the example of  FIG.  9   , during the first play of the enhanced RTP mode, collection element  908   e  is used. Collection element  908   e  corresponds to 500 credits. In some embodiments, any collection symbols that occur in the outcome for that play are substituted for a value of 500 credits. In other embodiments, 500 credits are added to any outcome and awards for that play. During the second play of the enhanced RTP mode, collection element  908   d  is used, which has a value of 8×. In certain embodiments, any collection elements (or other symbols that are designated) that occur in the outcome, are multiplied by 8× such that any awards formed using those symbols are multiplied with 8. In certain embodiments, the outcome award for that play is multiplied by 8. Play of the enhanced RTP mode continues with collection element  908   c  used next, then  908   b  and lastly  908   a . After completion, play of the normal mode resumes. 
       FIG.  10    displays a view of a user interface  1000  for an exemplary mode tracking system for displaying progress towards a plurality of enhanced RTP modes in accordance with at least one embodiment of the disclosure. In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  1000  is displayed as a part of the button area or button deck  120  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). In other embodiments, user interface  1000  is displayed on at least one of the primary game display  240  and the secondary game display  242  (both shown in  FIG.  2   ). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, user interface  1000  displays the progress towards each of the levels of enhanced RTP play. Each of the plurality of input buttons  1002 - 1010  is associated with a different wagering level. In some embodiments, buttons  1002 - 1010  are similar to buttons  122  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). In some embodiments, buttons  1002 - 1010  are displayed on a touch screen display and can be activated by touch. Each of the plurality of buttons  1002 - 1010  and their corresponding wagering level also are associated with a mode tracker  1012 - 1020 . The mode trackers  1012 - 1020  include a plurality of tracking elements  1012   a - e ,  1014   a - e ,  1016   a - e ,  1018   a - e , and  1020   a - e . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  10  and  11   , the tracking elements  1012 - 1020  are envelopes and coins 
     For tracking element  1012  that corresponds to an 88 credit wager (and button  1002 ), tracking elements  1012   a  and  1012   b  have been activated and tracking elements  1012   c - e  have not been activated yet. Each coin represents a step towards the enhanced RTP mode. At this point, the player is two of the five steps towards activating the enhanced RTP mode associated with the first wagering level. In other words, two of the elements towards enhanced RTP mode have been collected during game play over one or more game play activations, or wagers. 
     For tracking element  1014  that corresponds to a  176  credit (and button  1004 ), tracking element  1014   a  have been activated and tracking elements  1014   b - e  have not been activated yet. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in  FIG.  11   , all five tracking elements  1020   a - e  have been collected. 
     In the exemplary embodiment, the progress towards activating the mode is associated with the individual gaming machine and is persistent across players. So if one player stops playing, the progress is saved by the gaming machine and the next player picks up at that point in the progression. The displays, as shown in  FIGS.  10  and  11   , allow players and potential player to know how far along a particular machine is towards activating each level of the mode (such as the enhanced RTP mode). This may cause players to look around at different machines to determine which machine that they want to play at based on the current progress of that machine towards one or more of the enhanced RTP modes. Furthermore, this may drive the player to play at a particular wagering level based on the gaming machines currently progress towards the enhanced RTP mode at that wagering level. 
       FIG.  12    displays a view of a base game for achieving an enhanced play mode, such as an enhanced RTP mode, as shown in  FIGS.  4  and  5   . As shown in  FIG.  12   , user interface  400  displays an outcome of a base game in which a red envelope symbol is displayed on reel 3. The presence of the red envelop symbol is an enhanced RTP tracking element in the outcome which activates an tracking element (element  408 B of  FIG.  4   ), as shown in  FIGS.  13 - 14    ( FIG.  13    shows an animation that indicates that a tracking element is being activated and  FIG.  14    shows the activated tracking element).  FIG.  15    displays a view of the base game shown in  FIG.  11    progressing to the enhanced RTP mode with all tracking elements being activated. 
       FIG.  16    displays a view of a play of a first enhanced RTP mode of the base game shown in  FIGS.  12 - 15   . As seen in  FIG.  16   , a user interface  600  is shown. User interface  600  is similar to user interface  600  shown in  FIG.  6   . 
       FIG.  17    displays a view of a play of a second enhanced RTP mode of the base game shown in  FIGS.  12 - 15   . As seen in  FIG.  17   , a user interface  700  is shown. User interface  700  is similar to user interface  700  shown in  FIG.  7   . 
     In certain embodiments, the quantity of plays of the enhanced RTP mode is based on the quantity of activated tracking elements. For example, as shown in  FIGS.  6  and  7   , five collected and activated tracking elements correspond to five plays in the enhanced RTP mode. In certain embodiments, the quantity of plays of the enhanced RTP mode is a multiple of the quantity of activated tracking elements. In certain embodiments, it is possible to collect additional tracking elements during the play of the enhanced RTP mode. In certain embodiments, it is possible to reset the activated tracking elements to the maximum quantity, such as five in the examples of  FIGS.  6  and  7   , during the play of the enhanced RTP mode. In certain embodiments, the quantity of plays of the enhanced RTP mode is randomly determined, predetermined, or player selected. In certain embodiments, a player wager amount can affect the quantity of plays of the enhanced RTP mode. 
     In certain embodiments, the quantity of tracking elements needed to trigger the play of the enhanced RTP mode is fixed or predetermined, such as shown in the examples of  FIG.  4   . In certain embodiments, the quantity of tracking elements needed to trigger the play of the enhanced RTP mode is dependent on the wager amount (higher wager amount may need a lower quantity). In certain embodiments, the occurrence of a tacking element in a game outcome can increment the activated tracking elements by one or more than one increments. This may be predetermined (certain tracking elements can increment by a quantity displayed on the tracking element), randomly determined (a display or animation to show the number of increments associated with the tracking element), player selected, determined by the play of a bonus game, such as a wheel spin, pick bonus etc. 
     In certain embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode can be presented in other forms. For example, instead of an increased number of rows, the enhanced RTP mode may be presented via a different set of reels that have a higher RTP. This may be via one or more of: different (higher) pays for symbol combination, higher frequency of higher paying symbols, increase in the number of (or probability of landing) special symbols such as wild symbols, increase in the number of (or probability of landing) free spin trigger symbols, etc. In certain embodiments, the enhanced RTP mode may be a different game altogether, such as a game of skill, a different game of chance, etc. 
     In certain embodiments, tracking elements in enhanced RTP mode tracker  406  are collected from left to right, visually, and used up, during play of the enhanced RTP mode from right to left. In certain embodiments, the quantity of plays of the enhanced RTP mode corresponds to the quantity of tracking elements. As each play commences (or ends), one tracking element is removed from the RTP mode tracker. 
     In certain embodiments, collected tracking elements may be saved to a player tracking account. After a player completes play of a game and leaves with certain collected but unused tracking elements, these may be saved to a player&#39;s associated account and later retrieved when the player logs in to the same or a different machine linked to the loyalty system. In some of these embodiments, after the player logs out and the tracking elements are saved to the player&#39;s account, they may not be available for any subsequent player and the count is reset of zero. 
     While the systems and methods describe enhanced RTP modes, these enhanced RTP modes are a part of the game being played on the EGM and have been factored in to the RTP of the associated game as a whole. That is, the overall RTP of the game (or EGM on which the game is played), is based on the RTP of the normal mode and the one or more enhanced RTP modes. 
     In certain embodiments, a player may choose to play the enhanced RTP mode prior to collected the required quantity of tracking elements or even after the required quantity of tracking elements are collected. In certain of these embodiments, there may not be a required quantity to collect and the player may choose at any point to trigger the enhanced RTP mode provided that the players has at least a minimum (such as one) elements accumulated. Further, the player may not be required to play all plays of the enhanced RTP mode, and may choose to return to the play of the regular base game at any point and any accumulated and unused tracking elements will continue to persist. 
     In certain embodiments, a player may choose to cash out accumulated tracking elements when the player wished to end their gaming session. Each accumulated tracking element may be assigned a value, that may be multiplied to the total quantity of accumulated tracking elements to determine a cash out value. This cash out value is then added to the player&#39;s credit balance. 
     While various embodiments have been described of the enhanced RTP mode using a slot game example, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the enhanced RTP mode of the present invention can be applied to any other type of game, such as a video poker game, video keno or bingo game, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, etc. 
     One or more of the advantages of the system described herein include, but are not limited to, a) providing visual feedback of the progress towards a specific mode; b) providing increased player engagement in progressing to specific modes; c) providing persistent progress across players towards the specific modes; d) providing enticement to play at specific wagering levels; and e) providing enticement to play a specific machine due to its current progress to a specific mode. These advantages cause a player to change or modify their normal play behavior to accommodate for these improvements. For example, a player may choose to wager a higher/lower amount if that wager amount has certain reaccumulated tracking elements from a previous play. Further, a player may choose to play for one or more additional spins if they have a certain quantity of accumulated tracking elements to try and compete the progress and trigger the enhanced RTP mode. A player may also decided to end their session early if they did not accumulate enough tracking elements. 
     A computer, controller, or server, such as those described herein, includes at least one processor or processing unit and a system memory. The computer, controller, or server typically has at least some form of computer readable non-transitory media. As used herein, the terms “processor” and “computer” and related terms, e.g., “processing device”, “computing device”, and “controller” are not limited to just those integrated circuits referred to in the art as a computer, but broadly refers to a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application specific integrated circuit, and other programmable circuits “configured to” carry out programmable instructions, and these terms are used interchangeably herein. In the embodiments described herein, memory may include, but is not limited to, a computer-readable medium or computer storage media, volatile and nonvolatile media, 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. Such memory includes a random access memory (RAM), computer storage media, communication media, and a computer-readable non-volatile medium, such as flash memory. Alternatively, a floppy disk, a compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM), a magneto-optical disk (MOD), and/or a digital versatile disc (DVD) may also be used. Also, in the embodiments described herein, additional input channels may be, but are not limited to, computer peripherals associated with an operator interface such as a mouse and a keyboard. Alternatively, other computer peripherals may also be used that may include, for example, but not be limited to, a scanner. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, additional output channels may include, but not be limited to, an operator interface monitor. 
     As indicated above, the process may be embodied in computer software. The computer software could be supplied in a number of ways, for example on a tangible, non-transitory, computer readable storage medium, such as on any nonvolatile memory device (e.g., an EEPROM). Further, different parts of the computer software can be executed by different devices, such as, for example, in a client-server relationship. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that computer software provides a series of instructions executable by the processor. 
     Although the flowchart of  FIG.  5    shows a specific order of execution, it is understood that the order of execution may differ from that which is depicted. For example, the order of execution of two or more blocks may be scrambled relative to the order shown. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession in  FIG.  5    may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Further, in some embodiments, one or more of the blocks shown in  FIG.  5    may be skipped or omitted. In addition, any number of counters, state variables, warning semaphores, or messages might be added to the logical flow described herein, for purposes of enhanced utility, accounting, performance measurement, or providing troubleshooting aids, etc. It is understood that all such variations are within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     While the invention has been described with respect to the figures, it will be appreciated that many modifications and changes may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Any variation and derivation from the above description and figures are included in the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.