Patent Publication Number: US-8523647-B2

Title: Gaming method, device, and system including trivia-based bonus game

Description:
This application is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 10/028,756, filed Dec. 21, 2001, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety in the present application. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to methods, apparatus, and systems for gaming and, more specifically, to methods, apparatus, and systems for effecting a trivia-based bonus game. 
     2. State of the Art 
     Gaming machines, such as so-called “slot” machines, have long been a significant facet of the gaming industry. The most basic implementation of a slot machine is a mechanical device with multiple vertically spinning reels. The reels are invoked to spin as a player pulls a lever of such a slot machine. When the reels stop at random positions, a symbol or combination of symbols appears along at least one “pay line” to indicate winning of credits, money, or another award. The probabilities and predetermined payout for all winning possibilities are controlled to provide a desired or legal “house percentage” of the total monies played. 
     Video versions of gaming machines have become increasingly popular in recent years, and include fully computerized machines and hybrid machines that include both mechanical and electronic components and which may be referred to as “electromechanical” machines. Continuing with the slot machine example, many video slot machines include a computer-generated depiction of multiple reels, which simulate the mechanical reels of conventional, mechanical slot machines. Play of electronic gaming machines, such as video slot machines, video blackjack machines, video poker machines, and the like, is typically effected by way of one or more processors of such machines under control of software programs which include random number generators (RNGs), which assure a truly random result. Thus, a game may have a statistically sound basis for achieving desired verifiable payout levels for both experienced and inexperienced players. 
     A current, widespread enhancement to conventional single game gaming machines is the addition of a “bonus” or secondary game or event, which typically occurs if a player achieves at least one selected outcome during play of the underlying base or primary game. Many bonus events are retrofitted as so-called “top boxes” to conventional, single game gaming machines, in which the preexisting game comprises the base game, thus enhancing player appeal with respect to play of the games of gaming machines that are already in service. 
     In many cases, the bonus game is a singular event, in that play on the gaming machine switches from the base game to the bonus game when a certain base game outcome is achieved, the bonus game then being played to completion. Examples of this type of bonus game, wherein the bonus games are variously configured, are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,823,874, 5,848,932, 5,882,261, and 6,089,978, all of which have been assigned to Anchor Gaming, assignee of the present invention. Progressive games, wherein a portion of wagers is allocated to fund a jackpot, have also been embodied as bonus games. A notably successful example of a so-called “linked progressive”, wherein gaming machines are linked for purposes of contributing to the award from a bonus event won at one of the linked gaming machines, is the WHEEL OF FORTUNE bonus game, which is based upon the aforementioned &#39;874 and &#39;932 Patents. 
     In the WHEEL OF FORTUNE game, players are notified of the various events in the game through visual indicators such as flashing lights, computer-generated text images in the display, and audible indicators such as theme music playing. Specifically, a player is notified that he or she has won a chance at the bonus event by seeing the symbol appear in the display screen, flashing of a “Spin the Wheel” button on the gaming machine housing and playing of the WHEEL OF FORTUNE game theme. When the player pushes a button labeled “Spin the Wheel”, the bonus wheel spins and sounds of the wheel spinning are generated. When the wheel stops and indicates an award, the sound of audience applause is generated. All of the foregoing elements are intended to enhance the player&#39;s gaming experience and to attract other players to the game. 
     In card games, so-called “wild” cards may be used by a player in lieu of any other particular card to form a winning hand. A wild card must be played in the hand in which it is dealt or drawn. Thus, if a wild card will not form a winning hand with the player&#39;s other cards, it is of no benefit to the player. 
     In U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,431,408 and 6,120,031, both to Adams, a gaming machine is disclosed as using a conventional card game, e.g., poker, but operating with the proviso that wild cards dealt in one game, or “hand”, may be reserved for use in future games. Thus, a player having a “hand” which is little helped by a wild card may save the card for a future hand, where a wild card may enhance the winnings. 
     Various techniques are used in the gaming industry for attracting players to a gaming machine and maximizing the enjoyment experienced while playing a particular game. Such techniques include, for example, enhanced audio and visual effects, changes in game format during play (e.g., bonus games), frequency of winning indicia combinations, and the like. 
     Conventional gaming machines, including the bonus games thereof, typically execute games of chance which do not require a player to strategize or use any mental skill. 
     Nonetheless, there is a need for games and gaming machines that cause a player to exercise his or her mental skills. Such games may prolong and enhance interaction between a primary or base game and any bonus games, thus maintaining a high level of entertainment value and personalization of the bonus gaming experience. Providing a gaming device with elements of chance as well as skill at a plurality of interacting levels would be attractive for many players at all levels of experience. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention includes a gaming method with discrete levels of play, as well as gaming units and systems by which play of the game of the present invention may be effected. A gaming unit incorporating teachings of the present invention may be configured as a “stand-alone” game, i.e., not connected to a network of other gaming devices for cooperative play, competitive play or linked progressive play. The present invention also includes gaming units that are networked or otherwise communicate with one another. 
     The game includes a first, base game, or level of play, in which credits, money, or other awards are given based on certain prespecified outcomes in a game of chance, such as the reel combinations of symbols in slot machines, the card “hands” in poker and blackjack, and the like. In addition, upon the occurrence of one or more prespecified events in the base game, play may proceed to a bonus event, in which the player may make additional wagers and receive additional awards. Moreover, during play of the base game, it may be possible to obtain items that are useful for the bonus event. Again, the occurrence of one or more prespecified events, which may be the same as or different from the prespecified events that result in entry to the bonus event, may be required for a player to obtain such items. Alternatively, such items may be “purchased” during play of the base game with a prespecified number of game credits. 
     By way of example and not to limit the scope of the present invention, the base game may be any game which may be incorporated into a gaming device, including, but not limited to, simulated card games, lotto, keno, “slots”, and the like. Randomly awarded prizes include conventional game credits, which may be “cashed-in” for money, as well as items that are useful during play of the bonus event and may be saved for future use therein. 
     In a bonus event according to the present invention, a player is required to respond to trivia questions, with bonus awards being provided for correct responses to one or more of the trivia questions. 
     In an exemplary embodiment of the bonus event, a display of a “tic tac toe” (i.e., a 3×3 matrix) or other matrix (e.g., a 4×4 matrix, a 5×5 matrix, a three-dimensional matrix (e.g., a 3×3×3 cube matrix), etc.) is presented. At least some of the “spaces” of such a matrix are filled with trivia subjects or topics from which questions may be randomly drawn. The trivia subjects or topics may be selected by a player of the bonus event or randomly determined. The player may be required to answer questions in a prespecified number of linearly arranged adjacent spaces (e.g., a “row”) or other prespecified locations in order to receive an award or the option to continue to a next-higher level of the bonus event. If the player answers the question properly or presents a “free pass”, which may have been obtained during play of the base game, a marker, such as an “X”, is placed in the appropriate space of the matrix. Otherwise, the player loses the opportunity to position a marker in that particular space. 
     An award may be provided to the player for each correct answer. When all of the questions have been correctly or incorrectly answered without correct answers being in a prespecified arrangement (e.g., a row, four corners, four spaces arranged in a square, etc.), play returns to the base game and may continue at that level. If, on the other hand, the correct answers are given in the first level of the bonus event at spaces in a prespecified arrangement, the player may be provided with an additional bonus award or provided with an option to proceed to another, higher level of the bonus event. 
     As an example, in a 3×3 matrix, different topics may be randomly assigned to six of the nine spaces, with the player being required to answer questions selected from three spaces that are arranged in a line, or “row”, along the matrix correctly before finishing the bonus event or being provided with an opportunity to proceed to a next-higher level of the bonus event. Upon selecting a space and its associated trivia topic, a trivia question relating to that topic is presented to the player. If the player provides the correct answers to questions selected from three spaces in a row (i.e., horizontally, vertically, or diagonally adjacent) along the matrix, the player may be given an award or provided with the option of proceeding to a next-higher level of the bonus event. 
     In embodiments of the present invention where the bonus event includes multiple levels, each level may include a tic tac toe game similar to that of the first level of the bonus event. The player is again presented trivia questions and a choice of answers for each of six subjects within a tic tac toe matrix. Play at the second level of the bonus game may require the player to answer trivia questions that have been selected from topics different from those that were presented during the first level of the bonus event, or questions that are deemed to be harder than those of the previous bonus event level. Correct answers to the trivia questions or use of a “free pass” may result in the player receiving awards. In one embodiment, completion of a prespecified arrangement of spaces, such as a tic tac toe line, in the secondary bonus game results in a doubling of the bonus award won by the player. The game may include a “double or nothing feature” wherein failure to complete a prespecified pattern of spaces on the matrix results in loss of credits won at the secondary bonus level. 
     A gaming apparatus of the present invention may be adapted for use with a player tracking card, such as a so-called “smart card”, for recording the player&#39;s progress level in the game, “free passes” collected, and game credits, thereby making that player&#39;s game settings and resources portable. Thus, a player may exit a game and re-enter it later on the same or different game machine, starting at the same progress level at which the game was earlier exited. As a result, the player may avoid forfeiture of free passes or a particular level of play that has been achieved, or leave such to another player. 
     A gaming machine of the invention may be connected to an accounting and gaming information system operatively coupled to a central server computer. The system may include a player tracking module and a pit, cage and credit system for providing automated casino transactions. 
     The gaming machine may include a single processor or group of processors that effect play of the base game and the bonus game, or may be a hybrid unit including an existing gaming machine on which the base game may be played and an ancillary “top box” installed on the gaming machine to add the possibility for play of the bonus event to the existing gaming machine. 
     It is contemplated that the game of the present invention may be implemented with a bank of networked gaming machines and further contemplated that the game may be implemented as a linked progressive game among a plurality of networked gaming machines at a single site or plurality of different sites. 
     Many versions of the gaming device and play methods are possible by changing the game “rules”, payout table, difficulty of questions and the like. The gaming device may be configured to permit a player to choose a particular version or difficulty level for playing. The payout table may be varied in accordance with the degree of challenge of the questions to be answered. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The nature of the present invention as well as other embodiments thereof may be more clearly understood by reference to the following detailed description of the invention, to the appended claims, and to the several drawings herein, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary gaming machine architecture suitable for use in implementing the present invention; 
         FIG. 1A  is a front view of an exemplary gaming machine suitable for embodying a multilevel game of the present invention; 
         FIG. 1B  is a schematic block diagram of a portion of a gaming machine suitable for use in implementing a multilevel game of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic block diagram of a configuration in which gaming machines are connected to a central server computer; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic block diagram of a gaming system including a central server computer and a plurality of gaming devices remote therefrom and in communication therewith; 
         FIGS. 4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  6 A and  7  together form a flow chart of an exemplary embodiment of a base/bonus/secondary bonus implementation of a game of the present invention, wherein: 
         FIGS. 4 and 5  are flow charts for a base or primary game; 
         FIG. 6  is a flow chart for a primary bonus game event; 
         FIG. 6A  is an alternative flow chart for a primary bonus game; and 
         FIG. 7  is a flow chart for a secondary bonus game event; 
         FIGS. 8 ,  9 ,  10  and  11  are schematic illustrations of a tic tac toe matrix display in which various possible random assignments of topics to matrix squares are shown; 
         FIGS. 12 ,  13 ,  14  and  15  are schematic illustrations of a tic tac toe matrix display in a bonus play level showing the effect of sequentially answering questions relating to six topics in one exemplary embodiment of a game of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1A  depicts the exterior of a gaming machine  100  of the invention. Within the gaming machine  100  but not shown in  FIG. 1A  are a central processing unit and memory associated therewith. The gaming machine  100  is shown as including two upper game display devices  178  and a coin return  162 . Coins or tokens may be inserted in coin acceptor  52  and added to the game credits that are available on the gaming machine  100 . Similarly, currency may be inserted in bill receiver/validator  54  to increase the number of available game credits. 
     Optionally, or as an alternative to the coin acceptor  52  and bill receiver/validator  54 , the gaming machine  100  may include a card reader  192  configured to at least partially receive a player card that stores account information personal to the card holder and, possibly, other gaming information. The card reader  192  is configured to retrieve information stored on such a player card and may be configured to alter the information stored on the card or to store additional information on the card. The card reader  192  communicates information, such as the amount of money available in an account associated with the player card, to the processor, which may then cause (e.g., by contacting a remotely located computer with which the account is associated or by storing information on a computer chip on the player card) an amount of money selected by the player, if available, from the account for the purchase of game credits on the gaming machine  100 . 
     A player may take action, such as selecting the amount of money to be withdrawn from an account, the wager amount for each game played, and actions associated with one or more games to be played on the gaming machine by way of play input controls  66  of the gaming machine  100 , such as the illustrated buttons or a touch screen  166  of one of the game display devices  178 , in which the player touches icons that are presented to provide the central processing unit with desired input. Alternatively, a play handle  60  of the gaming machine  100  may be pulled to initiate play, instead of using a play input control  66  or a touch-sensitive screen  166 . 
     In use and operation, and referring to  FIG. 1 , gaming machine or device  100  includes a memory expansion board  140 , a processor board  142 , a main board  144  and a back plane  146  integrally or separately formed. Memory expansion board  140  as well as processor board  142 , including a graphics system processor and video expansion board VGA/SVGA  148 , are operably coupled to the main board  144 . The main board  144  preferably includes memory  70  in the form of ROM, RAM, flash memory and EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory). In addition, the main board  144  includes a system event controller  72 , a random number generator  200 , a win decoder/pay table  74 , status indicators  76 , a communications handler  78  and a display/sound generator  80 . 
     The main board  144  is operably coupled to the back plane  146 , which may include additional memory, such as in the form of an EEPROM, and connectors to connect to peripherals. Furthermore, the back plane  146  provides a plurality of communication ports  136  for communicating with external peripherals. The back plane  146  provides the coupling between discrete inputs  150  and the processor board  142  and main board  144 . Typical examples of elements that provide discrete inputs  150  are coin acceptors, game buttons, mechanical hand levers, key and door switches and other auxiliary inputs. Furthermore, the back plane  146  provides the coupling between discrete outputs  152  and the processor board  142  and main board  144 . Typically and by way of example only, elements that provide discrete outputs  152  are in the form of lamps, hard meters, hoppers, diverters and other auxiliary outputs. 
     The back plane  146  also provides connectors for at least one power supply  154  for supplying power for the processor board  142 , a parallel display interface (PDI)  156  and a serial interface  158  for game display device  178 . In addition, the back plane  146  also provides connectors for a sound board  160  and a high-resolution monitor  162 . Furthermore, the back plane  146  includes communication ports for operably coupling and communicating with an accounting network  164 , a touch screen  166  (which may also serve as a game display device), a bill validator  155  incorporated in a currency (bill) acceptor, a printer  168 , an accounting network  170 , a progressive current loop  172  and a network link  174 . 
     The back plane  146  optionally includes connectors for external video sources  180 , expansion buses  182 , game or other displays  184 , an SCSI port  188  and an interface  190  for at least one card reader  192  (debit/credit, player card, etc.) and key pad  194 . The back plane  146  may also include means for coupling a plurality of reel driver boards  196  (one per reel) which drive physical game reels  198  with a shaft encoder or other sensor means to the processor board  142  and main board  144  if a gaming device  100  is configured for play of a reel-type game. Of course, the reels may be similarly implemented electronically by display as video images, technology for such an approach being well known and widely employed in the art. In such an instance, reel driver boards  196  and physical game reels  198  with associated hardware are eliminated and the game outcome generated by the random number generator  200  on main board  144  is directly displayed on a video game display  184  and, optionally, on a separate game display device  178 , as known in the art. Other gaming machine configurations for play of different wagering games such as video poker games, video blackjack games, video Keno, video bingo or any other suitable primary games are equally well known in the art. It will also be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that selected components of gaming device  100  may be duplicated for play of a bonus game or event in accordance with the present invention, in that at least a separate board with a second random number generator may be employed, with associated peripherals and links thereto, for play of the bonus game. In the conventional situation wherein the bonus game of the present invention may be operably coupled as a “top box” or otherwise associated with a conventional, existing gaming machine configured for play of a base game, many of the components illustrated in  FIG. 1  and described with respect thereto will be duplicated, including separate software and associated memory for conducting play of the bonus game with associated pay tables for the bonus awards. 
     It will also be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that selected components of gaming device  100  may be duplicated for play of a bonus game or event in accordance with the present invention, in that at least a separate board with a second random number generator may be employed, with associated peripherals and links thereto, for play of bonus games. 
     In implementation of a stand-alone version of the present invention, orchestrated audio and visual effects that are both attractive and dynamic in nature, are provided by software in the main board  144  and appropriate hardware. The atmosphere that is created by full-motion video animation with sound provides for exciting and enjoyable play and attracts the attention of others, particularly during play events. During idle periods, such effects may be continued, and include the audio-visual effects of reel spins, winning sequences, and the like. 
     In implementation of the present invention, the gaming machines offering play of the bonus event of the present invention may be employed, as schematically depicted in  FIG. 2 , in a gaming network  210  that includes a central server computer  220  operably coupled to a plurality of gaming machine G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  which may include both electronic and reel-type game machines. It is notable that, unless the gaming network  210  is configured for progressive play, a variety of different makes of gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  offering widely different games may be incorporated in gaming network  210 , since the bonus event operates independently of the primary game on each gaming machine. The central server computer  220  automatically interacts with a plurality of gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  to activate a bonus event. 
     More specifically, and again referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the gaming network  210  includes a central server computer  220 , a bonus event computer  240  and a plurality of gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n . Each gaming machine G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  includes a controller assembly  280  operably coupled to the central server computer  220  and comprised of a controller unit designed to facilitate transmission of signals from each individual gaming machine G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  to central server computer  220  for monitoring purposes. In addition, the controller assembly  280  includes a network interface board fitted with appropriate electronics for each specific make and model of each individual gaming machine G 1 , G 2  . . . G n . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , in electronic video games, the central server computer  220  is operably coupled to at least one video game display element  118 , as shown at the left-hand side of  FIG. 2 , and sequesters a portion of the video game display element  118  for displaying video attract sequences to attract potential players. Video game display element  118  may be used for display of both the primary and bonus games. Where the gaming network  210  includes reel-type gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n , as shown at the right-hand side of  FIG. 2 , the central server computer  220  may be operably coupled to at least one active display element  120  so that potential players receive a clear indication of attract sequences and the active display element  120  may be used as a video display for the bonus game. As shown at the left-hand side of  FIG. 2 , the gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  may also be provided with a second video display element  122  as an alternative to sequestering a portion of the video game display element  118  for displaying video attract sequences and the bonus game. In addition, the central server computer  220  may include sound-generating hardware and software for producing attractive sounds orchestrated with the video attract sequences at each of gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  if such is not already incorporated therein. The games support input and output between the player and the games for such devices as heads-up display, joystick, keyboard, mouse and data glove via interface modules connected through the expansion bus or buses  182  and SCSI port  188 . 
     The attractive multimedia video displays and dynamic sounds may be provided by the central server computer  220  by using multimedia extensions to allow gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  to display full-motion video animation with sound to attract players to the machines. During idle periods, the gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  preferably display a sequence of attraction messages in sight and sound. The videos may also be used to market specific areas of the casino and may be customized to any informational needs. 
     Furthermore, the gaming network  210  includes bonus event computer  240  operably coupled to the central server computer  220  for scheduling bonus parameters such as the type of bonus game, pay tables and players. The functions of central server computer  220  and bonus event computer  240  may, of course, be combined in a single computer. Preferably, the gaming network  210  further includes a real-time or on-line accounting and gaming information system  260  operably coupled to the central server computer  220 . The accounting and gaming information system  260  includes a player database for storing player profiles, a player tracking module for tracking players and a pit, cage and credit system for providing automated casino transactions. 
     As previously implied, a bank of gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n  may be networked together in a progressive configuration, as known in the art, wherein a portion of each wager to initiate a primary game may be allocated to bonus event awards. In addition, and referring to  FIG. 3 , a host site computer  320  is coupled to a plurality of the central server computers  220  at a variety of mutually remote casinos or other gaming sites C 1 , C 2  . . . C n  for providing a multi-site linked progressive automated bonus gaming system  310 . 
     Preferably, the host site computer  320  will be maintained for the overall operation and control of the bonus gaming system  310 . The host site computer  320  includes a host site computer network  322  and a communication link  324  provided with a high-speed, secure modem link for each individual casino site C 1 , C 2  . . . C n . 
     Each casino or other gaming site C 1 , C 2  . . . C n  includes the central server computer  220  provided with a network controller  230  which includes a high-speed modem operably coupled thereto. Bidirectional communication between the host site computer  320  and each casino site central server computer  220  is accomplished by the set of modems transferring data over communication link  324 . 
     A network controller  230 , a bank controller  232  and a communication link  234  are interposed between each central server computer  220  and the plurality of networked gaming machines at each casino site C 1 , C 2  . . . C n . In addition, the network controller  230 , the bank controller  232  and the communication link  234  may optionally be interposed between each central server computer  220  and at least one separate display  236  at each casino site C 1, C   2  . . . C n . However, the bonus gaming system  310  may include hardware and software to loop back data for in-machine meter displays to communicate with bonus event award insert areas on gaming machines G 1 , G 2  . . . G n . 
     In the present invention, gaming proceeds on more than one level or mode. Thus, during play of a base game  10  ( FIG. 4 ), opportunities to play a bonus event  20  may be randomly awarded. In the bonus event or game  20 , correct answers to trivia questions are required for winning. The questions are randomly drawn from trivia subjects or topics  94  which are associated, by random selection, with particular spaces  92  of a matrix  90 , such as the tic tac toe matrix depicted in  FIGS. 8-11 . The bonus event  20  may include multiple levels, in which case each bonus level  20 A,  20 B . . .  20   n  of the bonus event  20  of the invention utilizes a matrix  90  of game spaces  92 , such as the squares depicted in  FIGS. 8-11 . 
     Selected components of gaming device  100  may be used to effect play of such a bonus event, as shown in  FIG. 1B . Thus, for example, a first bonus level  20 A may utilize a second main board  144 A with its own random number generator (RNG)  200 A and a connected second processor board  142 A. The second main board  144 A is connected to the back plane  146  and to peripherals through communications ports  136 . The random number generator  200 A on the second main board  144 A is used to select various game parameters during bonus play. 
     Additional bonus play levels  20   n  may be enabled by use of additional main boards  144   n  and processor boards  142   n . Any number of bonus levels may be used, but the example described herein uses two bonus levels in addition to the base game  10  play level. 
     It will also be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that instead of a separate board for each level of play, a single enhanced main board  144  may include all of the required board elements for operating a base game as well as a multilevel bonus game. 
     In implementation of a stand-alone version of the present invention, orchestrated audio and visual effects, which are both attractive and dynamic in nature, are provided by software in the main board(s)  144 ,  144 A . . .  144   n  and appropriate hardware. The atmosphere which is created by full-motion video animation with sound provides for exciting and enjoyable play and attracts the attention of others, particularly during play of the bonus event. During idle periods, such effects may be continued and include the audio-visual effects of reel spins, winning sequences, and the like. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 8-11 , the game parameters selected by random number generator  200 A include the random positioning of player-selected or randomly selected trivia subjects or topics  94  on at least some spaces  92  of matrix  90 . Trivia topics  94  may be placed in all of the spaces  92  of matrix  90 , or in a predetermined number of randomly selected spaces  92 , such as the six spaces  92  depicted in  FIGS. 8-11 . 
     Upon selecting a space  92  of a matrix  90  that contains a trivia topic  94 , a trivia question that pertains to that trivia topic  94  is randomly selected. Each trivia question is presented to a player along with a plurality of possible answers, only one of which is the correct answer to the presented trivia question. For example, a trivia question displayed on the game display device  178  ( FIG. 1A ) may be: “Who is buried in Grant&#39;s Tomb?” and a player must choose from three answers which are displayed:
     A. Grantland Rice   B. Small Business Grant   C. U. S. Grant
 
As an alternative to presenting possible answers in a multiple-choice format, at least some of the trivia questions may be presented in a “true/false” format and, thus, the possible answers may be presented simply as “TRUE” and “FALSE”.
   

     A pay table for correct answers in bonus play may follow any hierarchy which is consistent with the limitations of the gaming machine  100  and the gaming environment. Thus, for example, for a 3×3 matrix  90  in which six trivia topics  94  are displayed and, thus, in which six trivia questions may be presented, an exemplary pay table may be: 
                                                First correct answer   1 for 1           Second correct answer   2 for 1           Third correct answer   5 for 1           Fourth correct answer   10 for 1            Fifth correct answer   25 for 1            Sixth correct answer   500 for 1                         
Alternatively, a fixed award amount may be provided for each correct answer.
 
     In addition, completion of a pattern  98  of a predetermined number of spaces  92  in which the trivia questions have been correctly answered by the player, such as the depicted line of three spaces  92  with correct answers, will provide the player with an additional bonus award and/or passage to a subsequent bonus level  20 B,  20 C . . .  20   n  of the bonus event  20 . This may be true if the pattern  98  (e.g., the depicted line) is completed on the third, fourth, fifth or sixth play at the bonus level  20 A,  20 B . . .  20   n . Alternatively, the rules of the bonus event  20  may require a player to correctly answer all of the trivia questions that appear in the spaces  92  of matrix  90  to successfully complete a particular bonus level  20 A,  20 B . . .  20   n . Play at each subsequent bonus level  20 B,  20 C . . .  20   n  may be effected in substantially the same fashion. 
     As noted in  FIGS. 8-11 , random assignment of six selected topics  94  to six spaces  92  of a 3×3 matrix  90  may result in the following possibilities for achieving a pattern  98  (e.g., the depicted line) of correctly answered questions:
     (a) No straight lines  98  of topic-filled squares  92 , as shown in  FIG. 8 ;   (b) One straight line  98  of topic-filled squares  92 , as shown in  FIG. 9 ;   (c) Two straight lines  98  of topic-filled squares  92 , as shown in  FIG. 10 ; and   (d) Three straight lines  98  of topic-filled squares  92 , as shown in  FIG. 11 .   

     Thus, random presentation of the matrix  90  of  FIG. 8  may not permit a player to advance to the next level of play, even if all questions are correctly answered. In  FIGS. 9-11 , exemplary patterns are shown for presenting possibilities for one, two or three lines  98  of correct answers. It is known, of course, that, as the number of possible winning combinations of a given number of topics is increased, a player&#39;s odds of winning increases. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4 ,  5 ,  6  and  7 , which together form a flow chart of an exemplary sequence of events for play of the gaming machine  100  shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  1 A and  2 ,  FIGS. 4 and 5  show the play sequence for an exemplary base game  10 . The interfaces between  FIGS. 4 ,  5 ,  6  and  7  are indicated by circled letters A, B, C, D, etc. 
     A player begins play of the base game  10  on gaming machine  100  by first, at step  406 , obtaining one or more game credits on gaming machine  100  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ), for example, by introducing cash into the machine via a coin acceptor  52  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ), a bill receiver/validator  54  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ) or by transferring money from an account associated with a player card inserted into a card reader  192  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ). The numbers of game credits and free passes that have been purchased and/or accumulated on the gaming machine  100  are displayed at step  420 , and the player is prompted to wager a quantity of credits. 
     The player may then select a number of game credits to wager at step  408 . The game may have a minimum wager (typically, one coin or credit) and a maximum wager (typically ranging from three to ten or more credits). The wager is decremented from the player&#39;s total to update the player&#39;s account, and the player prompted to initiate play of the base game  10  (e.g., “spin” the “reels” of a slot machine or have cards in a poker or blackjack game dealt). 
     At step  410 , the player initiates play of the base game  10  (e.g., by pressing a button  66  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ) with a label such as “play” or “deal”, touching a similarly labeled icon on a video touch screen  166  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ), pulling play handle  60  forward, or by other means, as available on the gaming machine  100 ). 
     Turning now to  FIG. 5 , the result of the base game  10  ( FIG. 4 ) may be categorized by:
     (a) No Win, at reference character  504 , in which the player&#39;s account is updated at step  420  of  FIG. 4  and the player is prompted to repeat step  410  of  FIG. 4 ;   (b) Base Game Win, at reference character  506 , in which winnings of game credits are calculated from the pay table described below. Payouts of any game credit winnings may be roughly proportional to the number of game credits that were wagered at step  408  of  FIG. 4  and are incremented to the total number of game credits that have accumulated on the gaming device  100  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A );   (c) Bonus Credit or Free Pass Win, at reference character  508 , in which one or more free passes may be won and saved for use during play of the bonus event  20 . The free passes are incremented to the player&#39;s account and displayed; or   (d) Bonus Event Trigger, at reference character  510 , in which the result of the base game  10  moves play to the bonus event  20 .   

     In a gaming machine  100  having a plurality of mechanical reels  198  ( FIG. 1 ), the wager and play initiation results in spinning of the reels, the stopping places of which determine an outcome which may include winning of game credits and/or “free passes” and/or entry into a bonus event  20 . In an electronic video version of gaming machine  100 , random number generator  200  determines the outcome relating to game credits, free passes, entry into a bonus event  20 , etc. A predetermined pay table lists the payout for various play results and amounts wagered. As an example, where the base game  10  is a video 5-card draw poker game with a minimum wager of one credit (e.g., 10 cents, 25 cents, one dollar, etc.), a pay table may be as follows: 
     Payout: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
                 Pair of Jacks or better 
                 1 for 1 
               
               
                   
                 Two Pairs 
                 2 for 1 
               
               
                   
                 Three of a Kind 
                 3 for 1 
               
               
                   
                 Straight 
                 4 for 1 
               
               
                   
                 Flush 
                 5 for 1 
               
               
                   
                 Full House 
                 8 for 1 
               
               
                   
                 Four of a Kind 
                 25 for 1  
               
               
                   
                 Straight Flush 
                 50 for 1  
               
               
                   
                 Royal Flush 
                 500 for 1  
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The payout may be configured to be affected by the amount wagered. For example, an additional award may be granted for wagering the maximum permissible number of credits (e.g., five credits, an additional 10%, etc.). Alternatively, additional awards may be provided in gradually increasing amounts, depending upon the probability of the outcome, the number of credits wagered, or some combination thereof. 
     “Free passes”, which permit a player to skip a trivia question while indicating in the space  92  of the matrix  90  in which the trivia question appeared that the player has provided a correct answer thereto or which may provide the player with another trivia question that is randomly selected from a group of trivia questions related to the trivia topic  94  that appears in the selected space  92 , may be randomly awarded during play of the base game  10 . Alternatively, the player may pay a prespecified amount or redeem a prespecified number of game credits to purchase a “free pass” and/or pass on a trivia question, or to be provided with an alternate trivia question at a particular space  92  of the matrix. “Free passes” may also be awarded (randomly or upon correctly answering trivia questions) or purchased during play of the bonus event  20 . 
     In a first embodiment of the game, occurrence of the Bonus Event Trigger, at reference character  510 , during play of the base game  10  automatically initiates play of the bonus game  20 . In an optional embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 5 , a player may reject automatic entry into the bonus event  20  and, at reference character  516 , return play to the base game  10 . As an example, a player may wish to win more free passes in the base game  10  before entering the bonus event  20 , or may simply choose to cash out his or her remaining game credits, at step  404  of  FIG. 4 . A player may choose to cash out at step  404  of  FIG. 4  at any time during play of the base game  10  or bonus event  20  to recover all of the game credits that remain on the gaming machine  100  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ). If a player is using a player card or so-called “smart card”, he or she may also recover and save not only the free passes, but also his or her position in the game. Thus, the current game can be exited and re-entered at a later date, and even on a different gaming machine  100  having the same configuration. In the event that a large number of game credits have been accumulated on a gaming machine  100 , the gaming machine  100  may optionally print and issue a voucher to the player, which may be redeemed by the casino or other gaming administrator responsible for the gaming machine  100 . The gaming machine  100  then decrements the numbers of game credits and free passes to zero. 
       FIG. 6  depicts the process of playing a first level  20 A of an exemplary bonus event  20 . In this bonus event  20 , a matrix  90  is displayed at step  602 , having a 3×3, 4×4 or 5×5 matrix of spaces  92 . In addition, the player&#39;s game credits and number of free passes may be displayed. 
     In this description, a 3×3 matrix  90  will be utilized for illustrating the device and game. A large number of trivia topics  94  with a large number of preselected, associated trivia questions are stored in memory  70  ( FIG. 1 ) of the gaming device  100 . At step  604 , the random number generator  200  ( FIG. 1 ) of the gaming device  100  is activated to select six trivia topics  94 , each of which is randomly assigned to one of the nine spaces  92  of the matrix  90 . Thus, six spaces  92  are topic-filled and provide 0, 1, 2, or 3 straight three-space lines  98  in which trivia topics  94  are displayed, depending upon the results of the random assignment. In addition, at step  606 , a trivia question related to one of the trivia topics  94  is displayed, together with a plurality of possible answers, including at least one correct answer  88 A ( FIG. 13 ). The player is prompted to select an answer at step  608 . 
     If a player selects the correct answer at step  610 , a correct answer indicium  88 A ( FIG. 13 ) that indicates that a correct answer has been chosen, shown as an X, is displayed in the proper space  92  of the matrix  90  and a corresponding number of game credits may be awarded at step  612 . An incorrect answer indicium  88 B ( FIG. 14 ) comprising, for example, the words “Wrong Answer”, is shown at step  614  if an incorrect answer is chosen. If a player does not know or is unsure of which answer is the correct answer to a trivia question that has been presented in connection with a particular space  92  and the player has purchased or been awarded a “free pass”, the “free pass” may be redeemed in place of the correct answer. Once a trivia question has been answered, the player may be prompted to play the next trivia topic  94 , unless correct answers have been presented for the appropriate, preselected number of spaces  92  in the required, prespecified arrangement, for example, three spaces  92  in a row or line  98 , as determined at step  616 . In that case, play may proceed, at step  702 , to a subsequent bonus level  20 B,  20 C . . .  20   n . Alternatively or in addition, the player may be granted an additional bonus award for successfully completing a level  20 A,  20 B . . .  20   n  of the bonus event  20 . 
     A player who has attained entry into the bonus event may opt to return to play of base game  10 , at step  420  of  FIG. 4 , attempt to obtain one or more free passes to use in the bonus event  20 , or cash out at step  404  and exit the game at step  424 . In the event that a player successfully completes the bonus event  20 , play returns, at step  618 , to the base game  10  at step  402  of  FIG. 4 . 
       FIG. 6A  is an alternative flow chart for the bonus event  20 . As shown, trivia questions relating to each of the presented trivia topics  94  must be answered (correctly or incorrectly) to complete play of the bonus event  20 . If, after answering all of the trivia questions that are presented, all of the spaces  92  of at least one prespecified pattern  98  (e.g., a three-space line) are filled with correct answer indicia  88 A, play of the bonus event  20  may proceed to a subsequent level  20 B,  20 C . . .  20   n . Extra game credits may be awarded for completion of multiple prespecified patterns  98  (e.g., more than one line). 
     In the matrix  90  of  FIGS. 12-15 , assignment of trivia topics  94  to randomly selected spaces  92  results in one horizontal line  98  and one diagonal 3-square topic-filled line  98  for play. The random assignment is shown as resulting in a random order of topics for which trivia questions are asked. In addition, the numbered trivia topics  94  may be played out of order, as randomly selected by the random number generator  200  ( FIG. 1 ). As shown in the exemplary matrix  90  of  FIG. 12 , the topics  94  assigned to the squares  92  are: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
                 Topic 1: 
                 Cities 
               
               
                   
                 Topic 2: 
                 WWII 
               
               
                   
                 Topic 3: 
                 Stars 
               
               
                   
                 Topic 4: 
                 Colors 
               
               
                   
                 Topic 5: 
                 College 
               
               
                   
                 Topic 6: 
                 Phones 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The trivia topics  94  may be randomly selected form a predetermined set or selected by the player. For example, a scrollable list of topics  94  may be presented on-screen to a player upon entering the bonus event  20 . The player selects a set of (e.g., six) trivia topics  94  from the list, and the random number generator  200  ( FIG. 1 ) randomly assigns each of the selected topics to a particular number of spaces  92  for playing the trivia tic tac toe game. 
       FIG. 13  shows the exemplary matrix  90  following presentation of Topic  3 , and a correct answer by the player. The correct answer indicia  88 A is shown as an X. 
       FIG. 14  shows the same matrix  90  following the selection of a wrong answer to a question concerning Topic 1. A wrong answer indicium  88 B may be shown simply as the words “Wrong Answer”. 
       FIG. 15  depicts the same matrix  90  following a player&#39;s response to the first four questions. In addition to the correct answer to Topic 3, Topic 4 was also correctly answered. When the question for Topic 6, together with three possible answers, was displayed, the player presented a free pass to complete line  98 , and was not required to answer the question. Completion of line  98  initiated entry into the next-higher bonus level  20 B of the bonus event  20 , sending play to an additional tic tac toe matrix  90 . 
     Each additional level  20 B,  20 C . . .  20   n  of the bonus event  20  may comprise a matrix  90 , trivia topics  94 , trivia questions and answers similar to those of the initial level  20 A ( FIGS. 6 ,  6 A) of the bonus event. In the example described herein, the second bonus level  20 B is also the final level of the bonus event  20 , the game being limited to a base game  10  and two bonus levels  20 A and  20 B. 
     In the particular embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , the final level  20 B of the bonus event  20  comprises a “double or nothing” wager based on answering each of three trivia questions in a three-space line (an example of a preselected number of spaces  92  and space pattern  98 ) of a newly presented matrix  90 . The play is similar to that of the first level  20 A of the bonus event  20 , as depicted in  FIG. 6 . Upon entering the second level  20 B, game credits and free passes that have been accumulated on the gaming machine  100  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A ) are displayed thereby, at step  702 . The player is then prompted, at step  704 , to play the event for “Double or Nothing”, or alternatively take the bonus awards without playing the second level  20 B of the bonus event  20  (i.e., return to the base game  10 ). For example, the game may be configured so that the player receives a given number of game credits for attaining the second level  20 B; these credits comprise the “pot” which is wagered for double or nothing, or alternatively taken without playing second level  20 B. The game may be configured so that additional winnings or losses during play at the second level  20 B may be added to the pot or wager. 
     If the player elects to play the final level  20 B, at step  706 , the random number generator  200  of the gaming machine  100  ( FIG. 1 ) may select trivia topics  94 , as well as their associated trivia questions and the possible answers that correspond to each trivia question at step  708  and the first trivia question to be answered is displayed on the gaming machine  100  at step  710 . The random number generator  200  assigns the trivia topics  94  to particular spaces  92  of the displayed matrix  90  and, optionally, an order in which the trivia questions are to be presented or asked. Upon receiving a trivia question, the player selects an answer from the list of possible answers at step  712  and is awarded game credits or other awards (e.g., a free pass) for correct answers, at step  714 . The high-resolution monitor  162  or display  178  of the gaming machine  100  ( FIG. 1 ), also is updated at step  714  to reflect whether that the correct answer to the trivia question was presented. In the event that an incorrect answer has been selected, the high-resolution monitor  162  or display  178  is updated at step  718 , to reflect that the incorrect answer to the trivia question was presented. If a player succeeds at completing the prespecified pattern  98  of spaces  92  at  722 , the number of game credits that were accumulated during play of the bonus event  20  or the total number of game credits that were available to the player upon entry into the final bonus level of the bonus event  20  may be doubled, at step  722 . Otherwise, an inquiry may then be made, at step  720 , as to whether the final trivia question of level  20 B has been asked and answered. If not, process proceeds back to step  702 . If so, process flows to step  724 . At step  724 , like number of game credits may be decremented from the total number of accumulated game credits available on the gaming machine  100  to the player. 
     If, at step  706 , the player chooses not to play the final level  20 B, play of the base game  10  ( FIG. 4 ) may resume, with any bonus game credits received being combined with other game credits that have been accumulated on gaming machine  100  ( FIGS. 1 and 1A .) 
     Once a bonus award is made, it is logged onto a bonus credit meter or a consolidated award credit meter as known in the art, to either be retrieved by the player or used for further wagers, all as known in the art. If the payout is sufficiently large to require an IRS form W 2 G, the gaming machine preferably locks up and a signal is sent to central server computer  220  ( FIG. 2 ) for reconciliation of the award. 
     The multilevel game as described has many configurations and optional features. It may be formed to incorporate electronic play at all levels, not requiring physical reels. It may be applied in a “top box” form in combination with a conventional electromechanical base game gaming machine. In such a configuration, it employs a visually perceptible representation, such as a video representation on a video display of bonus play and base play results. A keypad, either on the gaming machine housing (such as play input control  66  described in the context of  FIG. 1A ) or a portion of a touch screen on the gaming machine (such as touch screen  166  described in the context of  FIGS. 1 and 1A ) may be employed to input player decisions relating to bonus events. 
     In addition, the game of the present invention may be effected in a competitive environment, where two or more players compete with one another on a sequential basis (i.e., by taking turns) or based on a rate of play of the base game and qualification for the bonus event therein. One player may prevent another player from receiving a larger award or successfully completing a level  20 A,  20 B . . .  20   n  of the bonus event by correctly answering trivia questions that prevent the second (another) player from obtaining correct answer indicia  88 A in a prespecified arrangement of spaces  92  of the matrix  90 . 
     While the foregoing describes a game with a plurality of bonus levels, a simple form of the game may have a single base game and a bonus event with a single level of play. Alternatively, there may be multiple possible levels in the bonus event. 
     It will be recognized from the above description that the gaming device and game method of this invention enables a player to use mental skill in a regulated gaming environment, adding a great deal of interest and excitement to playing the game. As the gaming method of the present invention includes the effects of both chance and mental skill, as well as the possibility for entry from a base game into a bonus event, it is conducive to the use of attention-attracting video and audio effects. 
     While the present invention has been disclosed herein in terms of certain exemplary embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and appreciate that it is not so limited. Many additions, deletions and modifications to the disclosed embodiments may be effected without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, features from one embodiment may be combined with features from other embodiments. The scope of the instant invention is only to be limited by the claims which follow.