Method for Playing A Matching Game

Abstract

A preferred method includes displaying a plurality of indicia-bearing game pieces 12 on a gaming grid 14. A player then selects game pieces 12 that are adjacent and that have matching indicia 16. Preferably, the matching adjacent game pieces 34 that are selected are then removed from the gaming grid 14. One or more prizes are awarded in association with the selection and removal of the matching adjacent game pieces 34. Preferably, the player is also provided with the ability to shuffle any remaining non-selected game pieces 32, after all matching adjacent game pieces that are perceived by the player are selected and removed. In this regard, it is possible that the player may overlook some matching adjacent game pieces 34. Additionally, some preferred embodiment gaming methods incorporate the use of multiple indicia 16 on each game piece 12 for potentially matching with adjacent game pieces. Finally, awards can be awarded to a player based upon game speed and the number of shuffles required to clear the grid 14, amongst other criteria. Preferably, the method also includes activation of an interactive help feature 100 for the bonus game. The help feature 100 is continuously accessible, allowing access to the help feature during play of the bonus game so that a player unfamiliar with the bonus game may receive instructions on how to play the bonus game during play of an active bonus game.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 662,605 filed Sep. 15, 2003, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.COPYRIGHT NOTICE [0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0003] The present invention relates generally to methods for game play, and more particularly, to a method for playing a game involving the matching of symbols on a game screen. BACKGROUND DESCRIPTION [0004] As the gaming industry has expanded over the years, numerous types and variations of gaming machines have been developed for the enticement and enjoyment of players. Game play...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a method for playing a game by matching adjacent game pieces that have matching indicia. The method involves selecting and removing one or more matching adjacent game pieces while awarding prize(s) associated with the selection and removal of the matching adjacent game pieces. The game pieces can display various indicia, such as color, type, or shape, and the method can be implemented using video representations of the game pieces. The technical effects of the invention include an increased variety of game pieces and prize criteria, as well as a more skill-based gaming experience."

Problems solved by technology

However, none of the matching games in the prior art allow or require a player to match files or cards based upon both similar symbols as well as the location of the files with respect to one another.

Additionally, as the gaming options become more numerous and complex, players can sometimes have difficulty keeping up with the knowledge required to play these games.

If a player is losing while playing new or more complex games because of a lack of knowledge of game rules, this will tend to decrease player interest and excitement.

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