Patent Publication Number: US-9898898-B2

Title: Variable strip for mechanical reel gaming device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/880,718, filed on Sep. 20, 2013 and titled “Variable Strip for Mechanical Reel Gaming Device,” the entirety of which is incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Slot machines often use revolving mechanical reels to display and determine results. For example, a mechanical reel slot machine may include approximately three to five mechanical reels, with each mechanical reel having approximately fifteen to twenty symbols for a relatively small number of combinations. In order to increase the number of possible combinations, conventional slot machines typically require additional or larger reels, which increase the size of the machine and potentially increases the floor space occupied by the machine. In addition, the number of components within the machine may increase, which may require additional maintenance and service. 
     SUMMARY 
     An exemplary embodiment relates to a gaming device. A gaming device includes a cabinet, a display coupled to the cabinet, and a reel assembly positioned within the cabinet. The reel assembly includes a reel configured to rotate, and a reel strip coupled to the reel and including a symbol having a first image and a second image. The gaming device also includes a light source located within the cabinet and configured to selectively project a light for backlighting the reel strip, wherein the light source has a first mode for projecting the light in a first configuration and a second mode for projecting the light in a second configuration. The gaming device further includes a game controller coupled to the cabinet and configured to control the light source. In this embodiment, the first image is viewable when the light source projects the light in the first configuration to backlight the reel strip, and the second image is viewable when the light source projects the light in the second configuration to backlight the reel strip. 
     Another exemplary embodiment relates to a reel assembly for a gaming device. The reel assembly includes a chassis, a reel coupled to the chassis and configured to rotate relative to the chassis, and a reel strip coupled to the reel and configured to rotate with the reel. The reel strip includes a symbol having a first image and a second image. The reel assembly also includes a light source coupled to the chassis and positioned within the reel strip to backlight the reel strip. The light source has a first mode for projecting the light in a first configuration and a second mode for projecting the light in a second configuration. The first image is viewable when the light source projects the light in the first configuration to backlight the reel strip, and the second image is viewable when the light source projects the light in the second configuration to backlight the reel strip. 
     Another exemplary embodiment relates to a reel strip for a mechanical reel gaming device. The reel strip includes a flexible laminate for attaching to a slot reel, and a variable portion positioned on the flexible laminate and including a symbol having a first image and a second image. The first image is viewable in response to a light source projecting a light having a first light configuration to backlight the variable portion, and the second image is viewable in response to the light source projecting a light having a second light configuration to backlight the variable portion. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the descriptions, the drawings, and the claims, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an illustration of a gaming device according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a partial exploded view of a main cabinet for the gaming device according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a front view of a reel strip receiving a light having a first light configuration from a light source according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of the reel strip receiving a light having a second light configuration from the light source according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  is a close-up view of a variable portion of the reel strip according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a block diagram of a controller for the gaming device according to an exemplary embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Numerous specific details may be set forth below to provide a thorough understanding of concepts underlying the described implementations. It may be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the described implementations may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, some process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the underlying concept. 
     A mechanical reel gaming device having a variable display is described. The gaming device includes a reel strip or filter that couples to the mechanical reel in order to provide a variable symbol for the gaming device. A light source is configured to backlight the reel strip by projecting a light having a light configuration. For instance, the light configuration may include a light color (e.g., an RGB color model), a light intensity (e.g., a brightness of the light), a light duration, or another factor or characteristic of the projected light. In some embodiments, one or more symbols of the reel strip are modified in response to the particular light configuration of the projected light. The light may include one or more colors such that the symbols or other portions of the reel strip convey the color within the light configuration. The light configuration may be selected based on a particular mode of the gaming device, such as a bonus mode, so that the composition of one or more symbols of the reel strip change when the gaming device is in the bonus mode or is toggled between modes. The gaming device may also include a controller for controlling the light source, including the light configuration of the light projected by the light source to backlight the variable reel strip. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a gaming device  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the gaming device  100  includes a main cabinet  102 . The main cabinet  102  provides a secure enclosure that prevents tampering with device components, such as a game controller (not shown) located within the interior of the main cabinet  102 . The main cabinet  102  includes an access mechanism, such as door  104 , which allows the interior of the gaming device  100  to be accessed. Actuation of the door  104  may be controlled by a locking mechanism (not shown) intended to limit access to the interior of the gaming device  100 . In some embodiments, the locking mechanism, the door  104 , and the interior of the main cabinet  102  may be monitored with security sensors of various types to detect whether the interior has been accessed. For instance, a light sensor may be provided within the main cabinet  102  to detect a change in light-levels when the door  104  is opened and/or an accelerometer may be attached to the door  104  to detect when the door  104  is opened. 
     The gaming device  100  includes any number of user interface devices that convey sensory information to a user and/or receive input from the user. For example, the gaming device  100  may include an electronic display  122 , a display panel  120 , speakers  126 , an information panel  124 , and/or a candle device  128  to convey information to the user of the gaming device  100 . A plurality of slot reel assemblies  118  are positioned behind the display panel  120  and viewable through the door  104  (e.g., through the display panel  120 ). Each of the slot reel assemblies  118  are covered with at least one reel strip such as reel strip  200  shown in  FIG. 2  and described in further detail below. The electronic display  122  is located above the door  104 . The electronic display  122  may be a cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor, a liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor, or another type of electronic display suitable for the particular application of the gaming device  100 . Various embodiments of the gaming device  100  may utilize the electronic display  122  to provide additional features, such as bonus games and/or attract sequences, to a base game being played on gaming device  100 . 
     The gaming device  100  includes a console  130  coupled to the door  104  and having one or more inputs  108  (e.g., buttons, track pads, etc.) configured to receive input from a user. A controller (e.g., game controller  600  shown in  FIG. 6 ) within the gaming device  100  may run a game, such as a wager-based game, in response to receiving input from a user via the inputs  108  or the display  122 . For example, the inputs  108  may be operated to place a wager in the game and to run the game. The gaming device  100  also includes a slot reel handle  114  that may be pulled by the user of the gaming device  100  to run the game. In response, the controller may activate the slot reel assemblies  118  and/or the electronic display  122  to execute and display results of the game. The information panel  124  positioned adjacent the slot reel assemblies  118  may also display information related to the game play to the user of the gaming device  100 . The information panel  124  may be a back-lit glass panel including lettering or other indicia that indicate general game information such as a number of coins or tokens played. During the game, the user may view additional game information and/or be presented with additional game options using the electronic display  122  and/or the information panel  124 . The user may be prompted to make a number of decisions that may affect the outcome of the game. The user may input such decisions using the player-input buttons  108 . Further, during certain game events, the gaming device  100  may display visual effects and/or emit audible effects that are perceived by the player in order to add excitement to the game. Visual effects may include flashing lights, strobe lights, and/or other visual effects produced or otherwise displayed by lights (not shown) on the gaming device  100 . Moreover, visual effects may be displayed via patterns on the electronic display  122  and/or from lights positioned on and/or within the slot reel assemblies  118  (shown in further detail in  FIG. 2 ). Auditory effects may include various sounds that are projected by the speakers  126 . 
     The gaming device  100  may also include devices for conducting a wager-based game. For example, the gaming device  100  may include a ticket acceptor  116  and a printer  110 . In various embodiments, the gaming device  100  may be configured to run on credits that may be redeemed for money and/or other forms of prizes. The ticket acceptor  116  may read an inserted ticket having one or more credits usable to play a game on the gaming device  100 . For example, a player of the gaming device  100  may wager one or more credits within a slot game. If the player loses, the wagered amount may be deducted from the player&#39;s remaining balance on the gaming device  100 . However, if the player wins, the player&#39;s balance may be increased by the amount won. Any remaining credit balance on the gaming device  100  may be converted into a ticket via the printer  110 . For example, a player of the gaming device  100  may cash out of the device  100  by selecting to print a ticket via the printer  110 . The ticket may then be used to play other gaming devices or redeemed for cash and/or prizes. According to various embodiments, the gaming device  100  may record data regarding its receipt and/or disbursement of credits. For example, the gaming device  100  may generate accounting data whenever a result of a wager-based game is determined. In some embodiments, the gaming device  100  may provide accounting data to a remote data collection device, allowing the remote monitoring of the gaming device  100 . 
     In one embodiment, the gaming device  100  includes a loyalty card acceptor  112 . In general, a loyalty card may be tied to a user&#39;s loyalty account. A loyalty account may store various information about the user, such as the user&#39;s identity, the user&#39;s gaming preferences, the user&#39;s gaming habits (e.g., which games the user plays, how long the user plays, etc.), or similar information about the user. A loyalty account may also be used to reward a user for playing the gaming device  100 . For example, a user having a loyalty account may be given a bonus turn on the gaming device  100  or credited loyalty points for playing the gaming device  100 . Such loyalty points may be exchanged for loyalty rewards (e.g., a free meal, a free hotel stay, a free room upgrade, discounts, etc.). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a slot reel assembly  118  for the gaming device  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, a reel shelf  132  is positioned within the main cabinet  102  for supporting multiple slot reel assemblies  118 . Mating connectors  138  are positioned on the reel shelf  132 . In an exemplary embodiment, each of the slot reel assemblies  118  are coupled to a corresponding mating connector  138 , such as to couple the slot reel assemblies  118  to the reel shelf  132 . The mating connectors  138  also provide connections to a power supply (not shown) for providing power to the slot reel assemblies  118  and to control circuitry (not shown) for controlling one or more components of the slot reel assemblies  118 . 
     Each of the slot reel assemblies  118  includes a slot reel  140  coupled to a reel chassis  156 . The slot reel  140  has a circular or wheel shape and is configured to spin or rotate relative to the reel chassis  156  during game play (e.g., in response to input from the user of the gaming device  100 ). The slot reel  140  includes a reel strip  200  coupled or applied to the slot reel  140  such that the reel strip  200  spins or rotates with the slot reel  140 . The reel strip  200  may be made from a flexible material (e.g., a flexible laminate) in order to match the shape of the slot reel  140 . In an exemplary embodiment, the reel strip  200  covers an outer surface of the slot reel  140 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 2 , the reel strip  200  is sized to wrap substantially around the circumference of the slot reel  140 , such that the slot reel  140  includes a single reel strip  200  for covering the slot reel  140 . In other embodiments, the reel strip  200  may be otherwise sized or shaped, such that more than one reel strip  200  is required to span an outer surface of the slot reel  140 . The reel strip  200  includes a plurality of symbols  202  that are utilized during game play. The symbols  202  are configured to rotate with the slot reel  140  through a display position in which the symbols  202  are viewable by a user of the gaming device  100 , with the slot reel  140  ultimately resting so that one of the symbols  202  is within the display position. The reel strip  200  may also include identification patterns  204  and/or marks that each correspond to a particular reel stop (e.g., the display position). The identification patterns  204  may be used to stop or center the slot reel  140  at the particular reel stop, such as to center or align one of the symbols  202  on a betting line or for viewing by a user of the gaming device  100 . 
     The slot reel assembly  118  also includes a light source  150  that emits light (e.g., visible light, infrared light, incandescent light, fluorescent light, etc.). In some embodiments, the light source  150  includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and is configured to emit or project LED light. In an exemplary embodiment, the light source  150  is positioned in an interior space of the reel strip  200  (e.g., the slot reel  140 ) and is oriented or otherwise configured to “backlight” the reel strip  200 , directing LED light through the reel strip  200  and into the exterior of the reel strip  200 . The light source  150  may emit or project light having a particular light configuration. For instance, the light configuration may include a light color (e.g., an RGB color model), a light intensity (e.g., a brightness of the light), a light duration, or another factor or characteristic of the projected light suitable for the particular application of the gaming device  100 . The light configuration may be determined or controlled by game controller  600  (shown in  FIG. 6 ) such as in response to an input (e.g., via the inputs  108 ) from the user of the gaming device  100 . In an exemplary embodiment, the light source  150  includes a plurality of individual LED lights that are controllable to form the particular light configuration, such as by the game controller  600 . The light source  150  may include other types of light, such as incandescent light, fluorescent light, high-energy discharge light, and/or infrared light. In an exemplary embodiment, the light source  150  does not project ultraviolet light. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the reel strip  200  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the reel strip  200  includes a laminate or composite material configured to couple or attach to the slot reel  140 . The reel strip  200  is shown as a flat strip in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , but the reel strip  200  may be flexible in order to approximate the shape of the slot reel  140 . In an exemplary embodiment, the gaming device  100  includes multiple slot reel assemblies  118  and each assembly  118  includes at least one reel strip  200  having multiple symbols such as symbols  202 . During a single game play of the gaming device  100 , each of the slot reels  140  may rotate or spin, with at least one of the symbols  202  from each of the slot reels  140  being displayed to the user of the gaming device  100  during and/or at the conclusion of each game play (e.g., via a display position). The pattern of the symbols  202  displayed to the user may determine the outcome of the game play, including the payout to the user. 
     The reel strip  200  includes a front side  228  for conveying information to a user of the gaming device  100  and a back side (not shown) positioned opposite the front side  228 . As described above, the reel strip  200  may include a plurality of symbols  202  that may be displayed to a user (i.e., player) of the gaming device  100  via the front side  228 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the reel strip  200  is shown to include a first symbol  206  and a second symbol  208 . In this embodiment, by way of example, the first symbol  206  includes a “lucky seven” or “7” graphic or image, and the second symbol  208  includes a “BAR” graphic or image. As will be appreciated, the symbols  206  and  208  may include another graphic or image. The back side of the reel strip  200  is configured to attach to the slot reel  140 , facing the light source  150  when installed within the gaming device  100  such that the light from the light source  150  is directed through the reel strip  200  and into the exterior of the reel strip  200  to generate one or more images. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the first symbol  206  includes a border  216  substantially surrounding the first symbol  206 . In the illustrated embodiment, the border  216  is substantially transparent, such that the light projected from the light source  150  passes through the border  216  and may be seen by a user of the gaming device  100 . The particular light configuration may change the appearance of the border  216 . For instance, when the light configuration includes a blue color, the border  216  may be tinted or colored by the projected light such that the border  216  appears blue to the user. Likewise, when the light configuration includes a red color, the border  216  may appear red to the user. However, the shape or image of the border  216  remains substantially the same regardless of the light projected by the light source  150 . In other embodiments, the border  216  may be opaque or have another light-reactive property suitable for the particular application of the reel strip  200  and/or the border  216 . The second symbol  208  may also include a border similar to the border  216  and surrounding the second symbol  208 . In some embodiments, the reel strip  200  includes a border on at least one side of the reel strip  200  and being similar to the border  216 . The reel strip  200  may include other substantially transparent portions, such as borders for separating one or more images or shapes within the symbols  206  and  208 . These substantially transparent portions may be similar to the border  216 , providing a contrast between two images or shapes within the reel strip  200 . The appearance of these substantially transparent portions may also change based on the configuration of the light projected by the light source  150 , such as to change color or to blink. However, the shape remains substantially the same regardless of the light configuration in an exemplary embodiment. 
     In some embodiments, the reel strip  200  includes a base portion  214  surrounding the first symbol  206  and the second symbol  208  (e.g., the border  216  and the border of the second symbol  208 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the base portion  214  is substantially opaque, such that the light from the light source  150  may not pass through the base portion  214  of the reel strip  200 . For instance, the base portion  214  may be a solid color in order to create a contrast between the base portion  214  and the symbols  206  and  208  such that the symbols  206  and  208  are easier to see and differentiate. In other embodiments, varying amounts of light from the light source  150  may pass through the base portion  214 , such that the base portion  214  includes a hue that is influenced by the selected light configuration. In one embodiment, the base portion  214  may include a sparkling or bright pattern intended to create excitement for the user of the gaming device  100  and provide the necessary contrast to differentiate the symbols  206  and  208  from the base portion  214 . In other embodiments, the base portion  214  may not be opaque, but may have other properties consistent with the purpose of the base portion  214  in the particular application of the reel strip  200 . In an exemplary embodiment, the base portion  214  is symmetrical, having a shape on the back side of the reel strip  200  that is substantially a reflection of the shape on the front side  228  shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the first symbol  206  includes a variable portion  212  configured to convey an image to a user of the gaming device  100 . The variable portion  212  includes two or more types of printed ink that are combined into a single image or layer of film and printed onto the reel strip  200  in order to convey two or more images within the variable portion  212 . One of the two or more images is viewable by the user depending on the configuration of the light projected through the reel strip  200  by the light source  150 . Portions of the variable portion  212  may appear transparent, opaque, and/or having another composition depending on the particular light configuration and the images printed onto the reel strip  200 . In an exemplary embodiment, intersections between the two or more images are made white or clear, such that the intersections are not viewed by the user and do not affect the intended image. Transparent portions of the reel strip  200  are intended to allow the light from the light source  150  to pass through these portions in order to affect the color or another characteristic of the transparent portions. Opaque portions of the reel strip  200  are intended to substantially block the light from the light source  150 , such as to enhance the image(s) to be conveyed by the reel strip  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the reel strip  200  is shown according to when the light source  150  is in a first mode. The first mode may be a default mode for the light source  150  and/or the gaming device  100 . When the light source  150  is in the first mode, the light source  150  projects a light having a first light configuration to backlight the reel strip  200 . When the light having the first light configuration passes through the reel strip  200 , a first image  220  is viewable by a user of the gaming device  100  within the variable portion  212  of the first symbol  206 . The variable portion  212  includes ink for filtering light from the light source  150 , such that the unfiltered portion within the variable portion  212  is viewable to the user and forms the first image  220 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 3 , the variable portion  212  includes a first ink that filters light from the light source  150  having the first light configuration. The first ink is printed onto the reel strip  200  in a shape such that the unfiltered light passing through the variable portion  212  is viewable by the user as the first image  220 . The variable portion  212  may include one or more transparent and/or opaque portions or sections within the variable portion  212 , such as one or more designs or compositions. In the illustrated embodiment, the first image  220  includes a design having a star  226  and stripes  228 , but the first image  220  may be another image, design, or shape in other embodiments. In this embodiment, the star  226  and the stripes  228  are substantially transparent to the projected light and are configured to allow light having the first light configuration to pass through the variable portion  212 , such that the star  226  and the stripes  228  (i.e., the first image  220 ) are viewable by the user in the first mode of the light source  150  (i.e., in response to the first light configuration). In an exemplary embodiment, the first light configuration includes a blue color (e.g., a color having an RGB color value of 60, 244, 220), causing the star  226  and the stripes  228  of the first image  220  to have a blue color in contrast with the dark and opaque surrounding sections or lines (i.e., the filtering portions) within the variable portion  212  of the first symbol  206 . The blue backlighting from the first light configuration also causes the transparent border  216  to have a blue tint in this embodiment, as well as any other transparent portions or sections within the reel strip  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , the reel strip  200  is shown according to when the light source  150  is in a second mode. The second mode may correspond to a second game mode of the gaming device  100 , or the second mode may be triggered or utilized as part of the default game mode or first game mode. When the light source  150  is in the second mode, the light source  150  projects a light having a second light configuration to backlight the reel strip  200 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 4 , the variable portion  212  includes a second ink that filters light from the light source  150  having the second light configuration. The second ink is printed onto the reel strip  200  (e.g., along with the first ink). The second ink has a shape such that the unfiltered light passing through the variable portion  212  is viewable by the user as the second image  222 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second image  222  includes text  232  reading “2×WILD” to indicate that the first symbol  206  has an alternative significance or meaning in the context of the game, but the second image  222  may be another image, design, or shape in other embodiments. In this embodiment, the text  232  is substantially transparent to the projected light and is configured to allow light having the second light configuration to pass through the variable portion  212 , such that the text  232  (i.e., the second image  222 ) is viewable by the user in the second mode of the light source  150  (i.e., in response to the second light configuration). The star  226  and the stripes  228  of the first image  220  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) are substantially opaque to the projected light having the second light configuration (i.e., the projected light is filtered by the star  226  and the stripes  228 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the second light configuration includes a red color (e.g., a color having an RGB color value of 255, 54, 43), causing the text  232  of the second image  222  to have a red color in contrast with the dark and opaque surrounding sections or lines (i.e., the filtering portions) within the variable portion  212  of the first symbol  206 . The red backlighting from the second light configuration also causes the transparent border  216  to have a red tint in this embodiment, as well as any other transparent portions or sections within the reel strip  200 . 
     In an exemplary embodiment, a patterned laminate (not shown) or similar material is applied to the back of the reel strip  200  (i.e., the side facing the light source  150 ). In this embodiment, the patterned laminate is intended to diffuse the hard lines between the symbols  206  and  208 , the border  216 , and/or any other patterns or designs of the reel strip  200 , such as those having contrasting light-reactive properties. When the light source  150  projects a light to backlight the reel strip  200 , a glitter pattern or another similar transitional pattern is produced between two portions of the reel strip  200  by the combination of the light and the patterned laminate. In an exemplary embodiment, the patterned laminate is attached to the back side of the strip  200  by a permanent adhesive. The patterned laminate may cover at least the first symbol  206 , and in some embodiments covers the entire back side of the reel strip  200  in order to differentiate between the symbols  206  and  208  and other designs of the reel strip  200 . 
     In one embodiment, the symbol  206  is relatively non-reactive to a light source directed to the front side  228  of the reel strip  200 . For instance, the reel strip  200  may include a film that blocks the passage of light through the reel strip  200  from the front side  228  of the reel strip  200  so that the symbol  206  is unchanged in response to a front light. The reel strip  206  may also include a similar film intended to prevent light from reflecting off of the front side  228  of the reel strip  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the variable portion  212  of the first symbol  206  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In  FIG. 5 , both the first image  220  and the second image  222  are shown within the variable portion  212 . In an exemplary embodiment, the images  220  and  222  are printed onto the reel strip  200  using two different colors. In this embodiment, the first image  220  may be printed using a first ink having a first color and the second image  222  may be printed using a second ink having a second color that is distinct from the first color. In areas of the variable portion  212  where the first image  220  and the second image  222  overlap (e.g., where the star  226  and/or the stripes  228  overlap with the text  232 ), the overlapping portions are printed using a third ink having a third color. The third color is substantially clear or white in exemplary embodiments. In an exemplary embodiment, the second ink suppresses or filters light having the first light configuration, such that light having the first light configuration passes through only the first ink and the third ink to generate the first image  220  (i.e., cause the first image  220  to be viewable by a user of the gaming device  100 ). In this embodiment, the first ink suppresses or filters light having the second light configuration, such that light having the second light configuration passes through only the second ink and the third ink to generate the second image  222  (i.e., cause the second image  222  to be viewable by a user of the gaming device  100 ). When the light source  150  backlights the reel strip  200  with a light having another configuration (i.e., not the first or the second light configuration), both the first image  220  and the second image  222  may be viewable as in  FIG. 5 . In an exemplary embodiment, the first image  220  and the second image  222  are alternately viewable within the same variable portion  212  (e.g., symbol, area, space, etc.) when the reel strip  200  is backlit by an LED light having a specified light configuration (e.g., a color, an intensity, a brightness, a luminosity, a color pattern, a light pattern, a spectrum, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the first image  220  and the second image  222  overlap at one or more portions, sharing at least some area within the variable portion  212 . 
     The variable portion  212  of the first symbol  206  may be utilized to convey one or more conditions of the gaming device  100 , such as to indicate a change between two or more gaming modes of the gaming device  100  or to indicate two different game outcomes. In one embodiment, a particular symbol combination including the first symbol  206  may have a different value (e.g., prize value, cash value, etc.) depending on whether the first image  220  or the second image  222  is displayed (i.e., viewable). The value of the symbol combination may then be changeable by changing the light configuration of the light source  150  to display image  220  or image  222 . For instance, a symbol combination including the first symbol  206  may be a winning combination or have a higher value when the first image  220  is viewable, and may be a losing combination or have a lower value when the second image  222  is viewable. The controller  600  may be configured to selectively modulate the light source  150  between the first light configuration and the second light configuration in order to display the first image  220  or the second image  222 , respectively. By modulating between the first and second light configurations, the controller  600  may be able to change the value of a particular symbol combination based on the image displayed, and thus increase the number of possible symbol combinations within the game. 
     In one embodiment, an image of the symbol  206  may be changeable after one or more of the reels  140  have stopped spinning, such as to produce a visual effect. In this embodiment, the controller  600  may be configured to modulate the light source  150  between two or more light configurations after one or more of the reels  140  have stopped spinning in order to change the image displayed within symbol  206 . The value of a particular symbol combination may be independent of the particular image displayed within symbol  206 . For instance, the images that are displayable within the variable portion  212  may be variations of the same shape or design, with each of the images having the same value within a game. The controller  600  may be configured to modulate the light source  150  between two or more light configurations depending on a particular set of conditions. As an example, the controller  600  may also be configured to toggle between the two or more light configurations when the game has been idle for a predetermined period of time, such as to attract a player to the gaming device  100 . 
     In another embodiment, the image of the symbol  206  may be changeable as the reel  140  is spinning to produce a visual effect. In this embodiment, the controller  600  may be configured to modulate the light source  150  between two or more light configurations as the reels  140  are spinning in order to display two or more separate images within the symbol  206 . The visual effect may be intended to attract players to the game or to increase enjoyment of the game. The varied images may relate to different values within a particular symbol combination, or the images may be solely for visual effect. The controller  600  may be configured to modulate the light source  150  depending on one or more conditions of the gaming device  100 , including a game type or game mode, a time of day, a running game time for a particular player, and the like. 
     In another embodiment, the image within a symbol (e.g., symbol  206 ) may be varied (i.e., the first or second light configuration may be varied) after the reel  140  has stopped if a predetermined symbol (e.g., symbol  206 ) is displayed (e.g., is in the display position) and/or if a predetermined symbol combination is displayed. For instance, the predetermined symbol combination may be associated with a bonus mode or another outcome of the game. If the predetermined symbol combination is displayed, the controller  600  may be configured to automatically modulate the light source  150  to display a selected image in order to indicate the bonus mode has been activated or another similar outcome. In one embodiment, a first image within a particular symbol may be associated with a default or base mode of a particular game and a second image may periodically be “unlocked,” or made viewable (i.e., the light configuration may be changed), in order to indicate another mode of the game. For instance, the second image may indicate the start of a bonus round, receipt of a free spin, or the like. The controller  600  may also be configured to modulate the light source  150  to change an image based on one or more conditions of the gaming device  100 , the gaming environment (e.g., casino), the game being played, and/or based on the particular player. For instance, the light source  150  may be modulated to produce a visual effect in order to indicate a particular outcome (e.g., a winning game play, an achieved bonus or unlocked bonus mode, a jackpot, etc.). 
     The light sources  150  of adjacent reel assemblies  118  may be controlled (e.g., modulated, varied, changed, etc.) separately or in unison. In one embodiment, the controller  600  is configured to modulate the light sources to project a substantially identical light configuration through each of the reels  140  of the gaming device  100 , regardless of any other conditions of the gaming device  100 . In another embodiment, the light sources  150  may be controlled in groups based on a condition. For instance, the light sources  150  may be configured to project a first light configuration when an associated reel  140  is spinning, but project a second light configuration when the reel  140  stops spinning. The first light configuration may be configured to hide or disguise an image within a symbol, and the second light configuration may be configured to reveal the intended image. In another embodiment, each of the light sources  150  is controlled independently by controller  600 . 
     In another embodiment, each reel strip  200  includes a second set of symbols in addition to the first set of symbols  202 . The second set of symbols are positioned between each of the first set of symbols  202  (e.g., within the “white space” of the strip  200 ) and include a variable portion configured to toggle between two or more images in response to light backlighting the reel strip  200  from the light source  150  and having a specific light configuration. The second set of symbols may appear as white space in response to a first light configuration and be revealed or displayed in response to a second light configuration. For instance, the symbol may be revealed in order to convert a losing symbol combination into a winning symbol combination, such as when the second set of symbols lands on a pay line. In this embodiment, the light configuration may be changed after the reels  140  have stopped in order to reveal or change the second set of symbols. 
     In another embodiment, the controller  600  may be configured to control the light source  150  based on a user or player of the gaming device  100 . In this embodiment, a player may be identified based on a loyalty card received at the loyalty card acceptor  112 . The controller  600  may be configured to control the light source  150  and change one or more symbols of the reel strip  200  based on data from the loyalty card related to the player. For instance, the symbol  206  may be changeable to display an image indicating special offers to a particular player, such as meals, hotel accommodations, drink specials, and the like. The symbol  206  may also be changeable to indicate a bonus round or unique game mode based on a number of game plays for a particular player. The symbol  206  may also be changeable based on particular preferences of a given player, such as to reveal unique characters or symbols chosen by the player. In other embodiments, the symbols and/or images of the reel strip  200  may be otherwise tailored to a particular player based on player data. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a block diagram of a game controller  600  is shown according to one embodiment. The game controller  600  may be used to control one or more components of the gaming device  100 , to store inputs or other information related to the gaming device  100 , as well as to perform any functions or processes of the gaming device  100 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 6 , the game controller  600  is shown coupled to the gaming device  100 . However, in other embodiments, the game controller  600  may be independent of the gaming device  100 . For instance, the game controller  600  may be stored at a secure location and configured to communicate with the gaming device  100  remotely. 
     In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 6 , the game controller  600  includes a processor  602  and a memory device shown as memory  604 . In this embodiment, the memory  604  stores programming instructions that, when executed by the processor  602 , control the operations of the gaming device  100 , including the revolution of the slot reel  140  (e.g., via communication with the slot reel assemblies  118 ) and the projection of light from the light source  150 . In other embodiments, the memory  604  and the processor  602  may be used to control other components of the gaming device  100 , as well as to execute any functions or processes of the gaming device  100  described above. As shown in  FIG. 6 , the game controller  600  may be in electrical communication with the inputs  108 , the slot reel assemblies  118 , the electronic display  122 , the light source  150 , and any other components of the gaming device  100 , such as by a physical wire or by a remote (e.g., wireless) connection, as may be suitable for the particular application of the game controller  600 . For instance, the gaming device  100  may include other inputs or outputs (e.g., the printer  110 , the slot reel handle  114 , etc.) for communicating with the user of the gaming device  100  in other embodiments. In such arrangements, the game controller  600  is in electrical communication with each of the components of the gaming device  100 . 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the game controller  600  is configured to communicate with the light source  150  and programmed to control the light source  150  in order to execute one or more functions or game modes of the gaming device  100 . For instance, the game controller  600  may be programmed to command the light source  150  to emit light having the first light configuration when the light source  150  is in a first mode, which may also be when the gaming device  100  is in a first game play mode (e.g., by sending an electronic signal). In an exemplary embodiment, the game controller  600  sends the command to the light source  150  when the first symbol  206  is in a viewing position on the slot reel  140 . In this embodiment, the game controller  600  may be programmed to send the command to the light source  150  in response to a signal received from the inputs  108  or based on other information received from a component of the gaming device  100 . The first mode may be the default mode for the light source  150 , such that the light source  150  is configured to emit light having the first light configuration as a default command. The game controller  600  may also be programmed to command the light source  150  to emit light having the second light configuration when the light source  150  is in the second mode, which may also be when the gaming device  100  is in a second game play mode. In some embodiments, the second mode is an auxiliary or bonus mode, and the second image  222  within the first symbol  206  includes a bonus or wild card designation. However, in other embodiments, the second mode is utilized within a default or main game play mode of the gaming device  100 . In an exemplary embodiment, the game controller  600  is programmed to store or record any commands or signals sent or received, such as any information related to the functions or processes of the gaming device  100 , within the memory  604  to be available for upload. The stored information may be uploaded from the memory  604  upon request, or by a schedule. 
     The game controller  600  receives operational electrical power from a power supply  606 . In one embodiment, the power supply  606  provides power to the game controller  600  and all components of the gaming device  100 , including the light source  150  and the slot reel assemblies  118 . The power supply  606  may also supply power to other components of the gaming device  100 , or other components or devices that are connected to or in communication with the gaming device  100 . The power supply  606  may be any suitable power source, including, but not limited to, a battery, a generator, a solar power source, grid power, or a combination thereof. In arrangements where power supply  606  includes a rechargeable battery, the battery may be charged during operation through another power source (e.g., a generator, a solar panel, grid power, etc.). 
     Implementations of the subject matter and the operations described in this specification can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in combinations of one or more of them. Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented as one or more computer programs, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions, encoded on one or more computer storage medium for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing agent. Alternatively or in addition, the program instructions can be encoded on an artificially-generated propagated signal, e.g., a machine-generated electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signal, that is generated to encode information for transmission to suitable receiver agent for execution by a data processing agent. A computer storage medium can be, or be included in, a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination of one or more of them. Moreover, while a computer storage medium is not a propagated signal, a computer storage medium can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially-generated propagated signal. The computer storage medium can also be, or be included in, one or more separate components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, or other storage devices). Accordingly, the computer storage medium may be tangible and non-transitory. 
     The operations described in this specification can be implemented as operations performed by a data processing agent on data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources. 
     The term “client or “server” include all kinds of agent, devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example a programmable processor, a computer, a system on a chip, or multiple ones, or combinations, of the foregoing. The agent can include special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). The agent can also include, in addition to hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, a cross-platform runtime environment, a virtual machine, or a combination of one or more of them. The agent and execution environment can realize various different computing model infrastructures, such as web services, distributed computing and grid computing infrastructures. 
     A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network. 
     The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform actions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and agent can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). 
     Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry. 
     While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any inventions or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations of particular inventions. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination. 
     Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products. 
     It should further be noted that for purposes of this disclosure, the term “couple” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or moveable in nature and/or such joining may allow for the flow of fluids, electricity, electrical signals, or other types of signals or communication between the two members. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or, alternatively, may be removable or releasable in nature. 
     Thus, particular implementations of the subject matter have been described. Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. In addition, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In certain implementations, multitasking or parallel processing may be utilized.