Gaming machine, and control method for displaying computer animation reel game using game machine

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine including a cabinet, a display device mounted to the cabinet, and a control section connected so as to be capable of operating the display device.SOLUTION: A control section includes a processor that is programmed to execute an algorithm to render an animated sequence of computer-generated images on the display device including the steps of: rendering a bonus game screen onto a display device including a reel display area including a reel window displayed in an initial reel window state having initial window width; reducing the width of the reel window by transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a corrected reel window state and defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; and animating a bonus reel window appearing in the bonus reel area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 27

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine and a control method for displaying a computer animation reel game using a gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] Gaming machines, such as slot machines, are very popular among casino customers as machines that provide games that can be easily enjoyed, and recent statistics have reported that sales of gaming machines account for more than half of casino sales. Early slot machines were simple machines that accepted coin insertion, rotated and stopped mechanically configured reels in response to handle operations, and determined winning or losing based on the combination of symbols that stopped on a single payline. However, recent gaming machines have rapidly become more sophisticated, such as mechanical slot machines that drive physical reels with high precision using computer-controlled stepping motors, video slot machines that display virtual reels on a display connected to a computer, and various gaming machines that apply similar technology to other casino games. For manufacturers who develop these gaming machines, it is important to provide attractive games that strongly attract casino customers as players and to improve the functionality of the gaming machines. Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0003] In one aspect of the present invention, a gaming machine is provided. The gaming machine includes a cabinet, a display device attached to the cabinet, and a control unit operably connected to the display device. The control unit includes a processor programmed to execute an algorithm for displaying an animated sequence of computer-generated images on the display device, the algorithm including a step of displaying a bonus game screen on the display device having a reel display area including a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window including a plurality of cells arranged in a plurality of rows and columns. The reel window is displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along a plurality of rows and an initial window width defined along a plurality of columns, with each virtual independent reel displayed in a corresponding cell. The processor initiates a computer-animated instance of a bonus reel game by animating a plurality of bonus symbols to appear in corresponding cells of a reel window displayed in an initial reel window state, transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window, reducing a width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width that is smaller than the initial window width, defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area, animate the bonus independent reel window displaying the bonus independent reel to appear in the bonus reel area defined between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area, animate the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to spin the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel with the plurality of bonus symbols held in place, and stop the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to indicate a bonus game outcome.

[0004]

[0004] In another aspect of the present invention, a method of using a gaming machine is provided. The gaming machine includes a cabinet, a display device mounted to the cabinet, and a control unit including a processor operably connected to the display device. The method includes the processor programmed to execute an algorithm for displaying an animated sequence of computer generated images on the display device, the animation sequence including displaying a bonus game screen on the display device having a reel display area. The reel display area has a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window including a plurality of cells arranged in a plurality of rows and columns. The reel window is displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along a plurality of rows and an initial window width defined along a plurality of columns, with each virtual independent reel displayed in a corresponding cell. The processor initiates a computer-animated instance of a bonus reel game by animating a plurality of bonus symbols to appear in corresponding cells of a reel window displayed in an initial reel window state, transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window, reducing a width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width that is smaller than the initial window width, defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area, animate the bonus independent reel window displaying the bonus independent reel to appear in the bonus reel area defined between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area, animate the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to spin the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel with the plurality of bonus symbols held in place, and stop the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to indicate a bonus game outcome.

[0005]

[0005] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable instructions stored thereon is provided. The gaming machine includes a cabinet, a display device attached to the cabinet, and a control unit including a processor operably connected to the display device. When executed by the processor, the computer-executable instructions cause the processor to execute an algorithm for displaying an animated sequence of computer-generated images on the display device, the algorithm including displaying a bonus game screen on the display device having a reel display area. The reel display area has a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window including a plurality of cells arranged in a plurality of rows and columns. The reel window is displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along a plurality of rows and an initial window width defined along a plurality of columns, with each virtual independent reel displayed in a corresponding cell. The processor initiates a computer-animated instance of a bonus reel game by animating a plurality of bonus symbols to appear in corresponding cells of a reel window displayed in an initial reel window state, transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window, reducing a width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width that is smaller than the initial window width, defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area, animate the bonus independent reel window displaying the bonus independent reel to appear in the bonus reel area defined between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area, animate the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to spin the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel with the plurality of bonus symbols held in place, and stop the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to indicate a bonus game outcome. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1A]1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1C] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1D] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1E] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1F] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1G] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine shown in FIGS. 1A to 1G. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a game displayed in a display area of ​​a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a virtual reel used in a game according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the functions of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the functions of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the functions of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the functions of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a server computer system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a front view of a mobile computing device used in the server computer system of FIG. 9. [Figure 11A] FIG. 25 is a diagram of an exemplary reel strip data file used to generate the virtual reels shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 16-24, in which the symbol arrangement indicates the ordering of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11B] FIG. 25 is a diagram of an exemplary reel strip data file used to generate the virtual reels shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 16-24, in which the symbol arrangement indicates the ordering of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11C] FIG. 25 is a diagram of an exemplary reel strip data file used to generate the virtual reels shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 16-24, in which the symbol arrangement indicates the ordering of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11D] FIG. 25 is a diagram of an exemplary reel strip data file used to generate the virtual reels shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 16-24, in which the symbol arrangement indicates the ordering of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11E] FIG. 25 is a diagram of an exemplary reel strip data file used to generate the virtual reels shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 16-24, in which the symbol arrangement indicates the ordering of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a reel stop position data file used to execute a game according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of paylines set in the game determination area. [Figure 14] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm used to generate and display animated sequences of computer-generated images during operation of a gaming machine and / or mobile computing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm used to generate and display animated sequences of computer-generated images during operation of a gaming machine and / or mobile computing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 17] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 18] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 19] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 20A] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 20B] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 21] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 22] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 23] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 24] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Diagram 25] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 26]16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. [Figure 27] 16 is an exemplary illustration of an animation sequence of computer-generated images of game screens illustrating the algorithm shown in FIGS. 14-15. FIG. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0007]

[0019] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0008]

[0020] The present invention relates to a gaming machine, a control method for the gaming machine, and a program for the gaming machine and / or a mobile computing device that provides a game to a player, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The gaming machine according to the present embodiment accepts a predetermined game value from a player, generates a game result, and provides a payout to the player according to the game result and one or more payout tables. The gaming machine has a gaming cabinet including a display device and a user input device. The display device includes a display configured to display computer-generated graphics. The user input device includes a plurality of input buttons that allow a player to initiate game play and interact with video images displayed on the display device. The gaming machine includes a control unit having a computer processor programmed to generate and display a structured graphic user interface that is displayed on the display device using computer-generated graphics. The structured graphic user interface includes a plurality of virtual reels that display game symbols in a grid. The control unit is programmed to animate the virtual reels to simulate the rotation of the virtual reels on the grid, and to stop the virtual reels to display a game result. The control unit is also programmed to generate and display an animated sequence of computer-generated images on the graphic user interface screen to display a bonus feature associated with the game.

[0009]

[0021] 1A-1G, in the illustrated embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes a cabinet 12 that provides a display device 14 (one example of a display unit) and a control panel 16, and may also house a player tracking or ranking unit 18. The cabinet 12 also houses a game control unit 20 (see FIG. 2) that controls each part (see below). The control unit 20 also implements a random number generator (RNG) that is used during operation of the game. Each component will be described below.

[0010]

[0022] The display device 14 is a liquid crystal display device and / or an organic EL display device, and is controlled via the control unit 20 to function as the display device 14 that provides a display area to the player, which will be described later. In some embodiments, the display device 14 can include an upper display 22 and a lower display 24. As shown in Figures 1A, 1F, and 1G, in some embodiments, the upper and lower displays 22, 24 are displayed on a single display device. In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 1B to 1E, the upper and lower displays 22, 24 can be displayed on multiple display devices.

[0011]

[0023] Speakers 26 are provided on the left and right sides of the cabinet 12, and provide sound to the player by being controlled via the control unit 20. On the control panel 16, a bill / ticket validator 28, a printer unit 30, and an operation unit 32 are provided.

[0012]

[0024] The player tracking unit 18 may be housed in the center of the front of the cabinet 12 below the display device 14. The player tracking unit 18 includes a card reader for recognizing a player identification card, a display for presenting data to the player, and a keypad for accepting input by the player. This type of player tracking unit 18 cooperates with a control unit 20 or an external system, which will be described later, to read information recorded on a player identification card inserted into the card reader by the player and display that information and / or information obtained by communicating with the external system on the display. Additionally, input from the player is accepted by the keypad, the display is modified according to the input, and communication with the external system is performed as necessary.

[0013]

[0025] The bill / ticket identification device 28 is disposed on the control panel 16 with an insertion opening for inserting bills / tickets exposed, and an identification unit that identifies bills / tickets with various sensors is provided inside the insertion opening, and a bill / ticket storage unit is provided on the output port side of the identification unit. The bill / ticket identification device 28 accepts bills / tickets (including vouchers and coupons) that are game value, identifies them as game playing value, and notifies the control unit 20, which will be described later.

[0014]

[0026] The printer device 30 is disposed on the control panel 16 with the ticket output port exposed, and a printing section for printing predetermined information on printing paper is provided inside the ticket output port, and a storage section for storing printing paper is provided on the paper inlet side of the printing section. The printer device 30 prints information on paper under the control of the control section 20, which will be described later, and outputs a ticket from the gaming machine 10 in accordance with a credit payout process. The output ticket can be inserted into a bill / ticket identification device 28 of another gaming machine, allowing the paid-out credit to be used in game play, or can be exchanged for cash at a kiosk terminal or casino cage in the casino.

[0015]

[0027] The operation unit 32 accepts the operation of the player. The operation unit 32 includes a group of buttons 34 that accept various instructions from the player of the gaming machine 10. For example, the operation unit 32 may include a group of a spin button and a set button. The spin button accepts an instruction to start an instance of a game (to start the rotation of the reels). The set button group includes a bet button group, a line designation button group, a max bet button, and a payout button. The bet button group accepts an instruction operation from the player regarding the credit amount of a bet (bet amount). The line designation button group accepts an instruction operation from the player to designate a payline related to a line determination, which will be described later. The max bet button accepts an instruction operation regarding the maximum credit amount that the player can bet at one time. The payout button accepts an instruction operation to instruct the payout of credits accumulated in the gaming machine 10. The gaming machine 10 also includes an illumination device 36 that provides decorative lighting to the gaming machine 10.

[0016]

[0028] In one embodiment, the control panel 16 includes an acceptor device that accepts media associated with monetary value to establish a credit balance, a validation tool configured to identify the physical media, and a number of user input devices that may include a cash-out button capable of initiating a payout associated with the credit balance. The acceptor device may include a touch screen display associated with the display device 14 and / or the player tracking unit 18, a bill / ticket identifier 28, an operation 32, the player tracking unit 18, a coin slot, a ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) system, a bill acceptor, and / or any suitable device that enables the gaming machine 10 to accept media associated with monetary value to establish a credit balance for use in play of the gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the acceptor device may be configured to accept physical media, such as, for example, coins, medals, tickets, cards, bills, currency, and / or any suitable physical media that enables the gaming machine 10 to function as described herein. The acceptor device may be configured to accept virtual media, such as, for example, a player tracking account, a virtual credit balance, reward points, gaming credits, bonus points, and / or any suitable virtual media that enables the gaming machine 10 to function as described herein.

[0017]

[0029] For example, in one embodiment, the coin slot may include an opening configured to accept coins and / or tokens deposited by a player into the gaming machine 10. The controller 20 converts the value of the coins and / or tokens into a corresponding gaming credit amount, which is used by the player to wager on games played at the gaming machine 10. The bill acceptor may include an input / output device configured to accept bills, tickets, and / or cash cards into the bill acceptor so that a gaming credit amount associated with the monetary value of the bill, ticket, and / or cash card can be entered into the gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the bill acceptor also includes a printer (not shown) configured to provide a printed voucher ticket, which includes information indicative of the credit amount and / or monetary value paid by the gaming machine 10 to the player during a gaming session. The voucher ticket may be used at other gaming machines or exchanged for cash and / or other items as part of a casino's cashless system.

[0018]

[0030] FIG. 2 shows a functional block diagram of the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine 10 provides a control unit 20. Inside the cabinet 12, a control board is built in as the control unit 20, which includes a central processing unit 38 (hereinafter abbreviated as CPU) including a processor, an interface unit (or interface unit) 40, a memory device including a memory 42, and a storage 44. The control board is configured to be able to communicate via the interface unit 40 and each component provided in the cabinet 12. The CPU 38 controls the operation of each component by executing a program stored in the memory 42 or the storage 44 of the CPU 38, and provides a game to the player. The function of the CPU 38 is to execute a game and display it on the display device 14 of the gaming machine 10.

[0019]

[0031] The control unit 20 is configured as a computer unit that provides an interface unit 40 including a chipset that provides communication functions of the CPU 38, such as a memory bus connected to the CPU 38, various expansion buses, a serial interface, a USB interface, and an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface, and a memory 42 and a storage 44 that can be addressed by the CPU 38 via the interface unit 40. The memory 42 can be configured to include a RAM, which is a volatile storage medium, a ROM, which is a non-volatile storage medium, and an EEPROM, which is a rewritable non-volatile storage medium. The storage 44 provides the control unit 20 with a function as an external storage device, and can use a reading device such as a memory card and a magneto-optical disk, which are removable storage media, and can also use a hard disk.

[0020]

[0032] In addition to the CPU 38, the memory 42, and the storage 44, the interface unit 40 is connected to a bill / ticket identification unit controller 46, a printer unit controller 48, a player tracking unit 18, a graphic controller 50, an input controller 52, and a sound controller 54. That is, the control unit 20 is connected to the operation unit 32 via the input controller 52, and is connected to the display device 14 via the graphic controller 50. Furthermore, when an illumination device 36 that provides decorative illumination to the gaming machine 10 is provided, the illumination is controlled under the control of the control unit 20 via the interface unit 40, and an illumination controller 56 that controls the illumination device 36 to provide decorative lighting effects may be connected.

[0021]

[0033] The control unit 20 including the memory 42 and the storage 44 controls each unit by executing the programs stored in the memory 42 and the storage 44, and provides the game to the player. Here, for example, the control unit 20 may be configured so that the programs and data of the operating system and subsystems that provide the basic functions of the control unit 20 are stored in the EEPROM of the memory 42, and the programs and data of the applications that provide the game are stored in the storage 44. With such a configuration, the game can be easily changed or updated by replacing the storage 44. Furthermore, the control unit 20 may be configured as a multiprocessor including multiple CPUs.

[0022]

[0034] Each block connected to the control unit 20 will be described below. The bill / ticket identification unit controller 46 operates the bill / ticket identification device 28 to accept bills / tickets at the insertion slot, and notifies the control unit 20 of identification information corresponding to the bill type or credit payout process. The bill / ticket identification unit controller 46 notifies the control unit 20 of the information, and the control unit 20 increases the amount of credits available in the game according to the notified content. The printer unit controller 48 corresponds to the printer device 30, and under the control of the control unit 20 which accepts the operation of the payout button of the setting button group 34, information corresponding to the credit payout process from the gaming machine 10 is printed on a ticket and output.

[0023]

[0035] The player ranking (or tracking unit) unit 18 cooperates with the control unit 20 to transmit and receive player information and the like to and from the casino management system. The graphic controller 50 controls the display device 14 under the control of the control unit 20 to display display images including various graphic data. The sound controller 54 drives the speaker 26 under the control of the control unit 20 to provide various sounds such as announcements, sound effects, background game music (BGM), and the like.

[0024]

[0036] Furthermore, the interface unit 40 includes various communication interfaces for communicating with the outside of the gaming machine 10, and for example, the interface unit 40 can communicate with an external network via Ethernets 58, 60 and a serial interface 62. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which communication is performed with a known server-side gaming network 58 (server-based gaming), a G2S network 60 (game-system), and a slot information system 62 (slot data system).

[0025]

[0037] 3 is a schematic diagram of a display area 64 provided by the gaming machine 10. Such a display area 64 is displayed on the display device 14 (upper display 22 and / or lower display 24) by the control unit 20 executing a predetermined program. In the illustrated embodiment, the display area 64 is displayed on the lower display 24. For example, during a game, the upper display 22 may be used to display game-related information such as game title information and / or graphics.

[0026]

[0038] In one aspect of the present invention, the control unit 20 executes a game execution program to provide a game 66 including a primary game 68 (see FIGS. 16, 18, and 25) and one or more bonus reel games 69 (see FIGS. 17 to 24, 26, and 27). The control unit 20 displays a game screen including the primary game 68 and a bonus feature event in the display area 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the primary game 68 and the bonus feature event are displayed on the lower display 24. The upper display 22 may be used to display animations and / or game identification information during the game and / or the attract mode. In addition, the lower display 24 may display a decorative area, as well as an area displaying the credit amount, the bet amount, and the amount of credits acquired by winning (number of wins). In another embodiment, the primary game 68 may be displayed on the lower display 24, and the bonus feature event may be displayed on the upper display 22.

[0027]

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the primary game 68 includes a video slot game that uses a plurality of virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 (see FIGS. 3, 4, 16, and 18). The video slot game uses a grid 80 in the display area 64. The illustrated embodiment shows the display area 64 on the lower display 24. By using such a display area, the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment operates as a slot machine that pays out payouts according to winning combinations of symbols displayed in the display area 64.

[0028]

[0040] The display device 14 displays a plurality of game symbols in a grid 80. The grid 80 includes a plurality of rows (r) and columns (c). The grid 80 is made up of a plurality of cells 82 which are stopping positions for the symbols. One symbol is stopped and displayed in each of the plurality of cells 82 in the display area 64.

[0029]

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the grid 80 is displayed with fifteen cells 82 arranged in three rows and five columns (a 3×5 grid; 3-3-3-3-3), and the controller 20 generates five virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 for use in the primary game 68. In some embodiments, the grid may include other arrangements of cells, such as, for example, 3×4, 4×4, 4×5, and / or 5×5 arrangements of cells. Each cell 82 of the grid 80 displays a game symbol 84 based on the symbol arrangement of a virtual reel set 86 that includes the virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 (see also FIG. 4 ), as shown in FIG. 3 . That is, the cells 82 of the grid 80 correspond to the virtual reels 70 to 78 for each column, and game symbols 84 arranged in a predetermined portion of each virtual reel 70 to 78 are displayed. In the illustrated embodiment, each virtual reel 70 to 78 displays a plurality of symbols in a column corresponding to the virtual reel at the stopped position. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when stopped, each virtual reel 70 to 78 displays game symbols in the corresponding column. Furthermore, the game symbols 84 displayed in the cells 82 of the grid 80 are changed by moving (scrolling or spinning) each game symbol 84 for each column based on the symbol arrangement of the virtual reels 70 to 78, and the game symbols 84 are stopped by stopping the movement (scrolling or spinning) for each column. Here, the virtual reels 70 to 78 are data, and the control unit 20 uses a program stored in the memory 42 or storage 44 and data that displays the symbol arrangement (i.e., the order of symbols on each reel strip) adjusted for each cell column. Furthermore, the virtual reel set 86 is a collective term for such virtual reels 70 to 78.

[0030]

[0042] In some embodiments, the controller 20 generates each of the virtual reels 70-78 using a reel strip data file 88 (see FIGS. 11A-11E) stored in the memory 42 and / or storage 44. The reel strip data file 88 includes a reel designation 90 associated with each of the virtual reels 70-78 and a consecutive symbol position logic cell 92 associated with each of the reel designations 90. Each symbol position logic cell 92 includes an indicator for rendering a virtual reel having a plurality of game symbols. The reel strip data file 88 includes information related to a plurality of reel strips 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 corresponding to the virtual reels 70-78 and is used to generate the virtual reels 70-78. Each of the reel strip data files 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 includes a number of symbol positions 104 at which game symbols 84 selected from a symbol image data file stored in the memory 42 and / or storage 44 are placed. The reel strips 94-102 also include reel stop locations 106 associated with each symbol location 104. The symbol locations 104 and corresponding game symbols 84 are arranged in a defined order by each reel strip 94, 96, 98, 100, 102. In addition, one or more of the reel strips 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 includes a differing number of symbol locations 112.

[0031]

[0043] In some embodiments, each reel strip 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 includes a number of fixed symbol positions 104 for displaying game symbols 84. Each fixed symbol position 104 includes instructions for displaying a predetermined game symbol 84 selected from a set of game symbols 84 included in a game symbol image data file. For example, for each play of a game, a fixed symbol position 104 is associated with a predetermined game symbol 84 selected from the symbol set. The game symbol image data file includes details of the game symbols 84 to be placed at the fixed symbol positions 104, and includes various game symbols 84. The symbol set may include primary game symbols 107 including standard symbols such as playing card symbols ("9", "10", "J", "Q", "K", and "A"), and picture symbols showing patterns ("PicA", "PicB", "PicC", and "PicD"). In addition, the symbol set includes a wild symbol ("Wild") that substitutes for another symbol when a winning combination is determined, and a special symbol ("Special") that may be used to determine whether a game feature is provided. Each of these symbols has a different rank in terms of their value when winning, and the ranks increase in the following order: "9", "10", "J", "Q", "K", "A", "PicE", "PicD", "PicC", "PicB", "PicA". Symbol combinations that include symbols with higher ranks when winning can win a higher prize payout than symbol combinations with lower ranks when winning.

[0032]

[0044] One or some of the reel strips 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 include a number of variable symbol positions 104 that display variable inner symbols ("inner"). Symbols are placed at the variable symbol positions 104 using a variable symbol reel strip data file and / or a variable symbol weight table. The variable symbol reel strip data file includes a variable symbol reel strip 128 that includes a number of symbol positions at which game symbols selected from a game symbol image file are placed and stop positions associated with each symbol position. In generating the virtual reels 70-78, the control unit 20 is programmed to place symbols at the variable symbol positions by randomly selecting game symbols from a group of predetermined symbols using the variable symbol reel strip. For example, the control unit 20 may be programmed to randomly select stop positions of the variable symbol reel strip, select a symbol position associated with the randomly selected stop position, and place the game symbol 84 associated with the selected symbol position at the variable symbol position 104.

[0033]

[0045] It should be noted that in one aspect of the invention, one or more dynamic virtual reel strips may be used. Using the virtual reel strip, the symbols and / or symbol positions and / or length or size and / or any aspect of the virtual reel strip may be changed between one spin or play and the next. For example, the dynamic reel strip includes a number of symbol positions including symbols from a symbol set, and a number of variable symbol positions. The variable symbol positions may be in the form of one or more stacks (i.e., adjacent symbol positions). In one embodiment, the positions and / or sizes of the stacks may be changed randomly and / or in a predetermined pattern between one spin or play.

[0034]

[0046] Alternatively, the virtual reel strips associated with the columns of cells may be dynamically changed between one spin or play and the next, may occur randomly from one spin or play to the next, and / or may occur in a predetermined pattern. Note that in the illustrated embodiment, each column of the grid 80 includes a corresponding reel. When the reels stop, the symbols of each reel are displayed in a respective one of the cells of each column of the grid 80.

[0035]

[0047] In some embodiments, the control unit 20 may be programmed to generate a plurality of virtual independent reels 109 (see FIGS. 17-24) using the reel strip data file 88 (see FIGS. 11B-11E) and the symbol image data files stored in the memory 42 and / or storage 44 for use in the bonus reel game 69. The virtual independent reels 109 may be generated as single-symbol reels that are each displayed in a corresponding cell 82 and configured to display a single game symbol 84 when the corresponding single-symbol reel 109 is in a stop position. For example, in some embodiments, upon initiating the bonus reel game 69, the control unit 20 generates an independent single-symbol reel 109 for each cell 82 that is displayed in the grid 80. The control unit 20 generates each independent single-symbol reel 109 using the single-symbol reel strip data file 112 (see FIG. 11B). For example, the single-symbol reel strip data file 112 may include one or more single-symbol reel strips 114. Each single-symbol reel strip 114 may include modified game symbols 107, including card symbols (e.g., "Dark A", "Dark K", "Dark Q", "Dark J", etc.) and / or picture symbols (e.g., "Dark Pic-a", "Dark Pic-b", "Dark Pic-c", "Dark Pic-d", "Dark Pic-e", etc.), as well as a variable inner symbol 116 ("inner-MAN").

[0036]

[0048] Generally, the control unit 20 initiates an instance of the primary game 68 and randomly determines the stop positions of each of the virtual reels 70-78 using a reel stop position data file 108 (see FIG. 12) stored in a memory device. The virtual reels 70-78 displayed on the display device 14 (e.g., the lower display 24) are moved from their current positions and stopped based on their stop positions to represent the outcome of the primary game. Thus, in the display or grid 80, the symbols included in the virtual reels 70-78 are continuously moved (scrolled or spun) in the vertical direction of the display area 64, and one symbol in one cell 82 arranged in the symbol hierarchy based on the symbol arrangement is stopped and displayed.

[0037]

[0049] The control unit 20 may change and stop a number of symbols displayed on the display device 14 in accordance with the player's operation received by the operation unit 32, and payouts may be paid out in accordance with the symbols stopped in the display area 64, as well as the payline set and payout table data file (see FIG. 13) stored in the memory device.

[0038]

[0050] In the display area 64, a payline is set and used when a win is determined. A payline is set so as to span from the cells in the leftmost column to the rightmost column, and is a line that determines a win by combining a plurality of cells 82. The number of activated lines among the set paylines is selected by operating a group of line designation buttons included in the group of setting buttons 34 of the player operation unit 32. The control unit 20 determines a win when a predetermined number of identical symbols are lined up on the set payline with respect to the game result, which is a combination of symbols, and pays a payout to the player according to the type and number of symbols. The system for determining a win may determine a win when a predetermined number of identical symbols are lined up from the cells in the leftmost column on the set payline, may determine a win when a predetermined number of identical symbols are lined up from the cells in the rightmost column on the set payline, or may determine a win when a predetermined number of identical symbols are lined up in consecutive columns on a predetermined payline. It should be noted that paylines showing modes other than (or in addition to) the paylines shown in FIG. 13 may be used. Generally, a payline starts in the first column and ends in the last column, and contains one cell per column, however, one or more paylines may contain one or more cells in the same column and may include vertical paylines.

[0039]

[0051] In some embodiments, when a trigger condition occurs during a primary game, the control unit 20 executes a bonus feature event algorithm to display a bonus feature event. For example, when a trigger condition occurs, the control unit 20 may display additional game symbols and / or game animations on the game screen and transition the screen from the primary game to the bonus feature event.

[0040]

[0052] 5-8, in the illustrated embodiment, memory 42 stores a game application program 200 including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by processor 38, cause processor 38 to generate and display a game on display device 14 of gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, game application program 200 includes program code 202 and program object data 204 that include computer-executable instructions for implementing a game using the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0041]

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, memory 42 stores a game application program 200 and a system application program 206 that include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by processor 38, cause processor 38 to generate and display games on display device 14 of gaming machine 10. When executed by processor 38, game application program 200 provides game-specific / front-end functionality and system application program 206 provides general-purpose / back-end functionality. In an exemplary embodiment, game application program 200 and system application program 206 are implemented on the same operating system. However, it should be noted that these programs can be implemented on different operating systems and / or by different processors. In one embodiment, the game application program 200 includes multiple software modules, including a bet / currency unit / payline button listener module 208, a start button listener module 210, a credit balance manager module 212, a sampling manager 214, a random number generator 216, a comparison manager 218, a game outcome generator 220, a win evaluator 222, a game presenter 224, a game graphics presenter 226, a game sounds presenter 228, a win indicator 230, a reward provider 232, an application manager 234, and an external communicator 236. The game application program 200 may also include a reel strip data file, a symbol image data file, a variable symbol reel strip data file, a reel stop position data file, a credit prize symbol weighting table, a payline set, and a paytable data file.

[0042]

[0054] The bet / currency unit / payline button listener module 208 is a software module for receiving a signal from a bet, currency unit, or payline button, which is generated by the button when a player activates the button to select a bet amount, currency unit, or number of paylines. In response to receiving the signal, the bet / currency unit / payline button listener module 208 communicates the occurrence of the signal to the application manager 234 to change the bet, currency unit, or payline configuration of the game.

[0043]

[0055] The start button listener module 210 is a software module for receiving a signal from a start button, the signal being generated by the button when a player operates the button to start a game. In response to receiving the signal, the start button listener module 210 communicates the generation of the signal to the application manager 234 to start the game.

[0044]

[0056] In response to receiving the signal from the start button listener module 210 , the application manager 234 requests the sampling manager 214 to obtain the required number of random numbers from the random number generator 216 .

[0045]

[0057] The random number generator 216 generates random numbers based on a predetermined algorithm of a random number generation computation method. The random number generator 216 may be a pseudo-random number generator. In response to a request from the sampling manager 214, the random number generator 216 returns a random number. In some implementations, the random number generator 216 may be implemented in a central server. The random number generator 216 may be implemented as an integrated circuit or hardwired logic.

[0046]

[0058] The comparison manager 218 compares the current state of the game or each random number with the reel strip data file, the symbol selection data file, the reel stop position data file, the payline set, and / or the paytable data file, and assigns a corresponding reel layout, stop position, prize symbol, or trigger symbol based on each random number.

[0047]

[0059] The game outcome generator 220 generates a game outcome based on the selected reel layout, the stopping positions of each reel, and the bonus feature.

[0048]

[0060] The prize evaluator 222 evaluates the game results by referring to the payout table.

[0049]

[0061] The game presenter 224 provides the game presentation process utilizing visual information and sound to ultimately produce a predetermined game outcome.

[0050]

[0062] The game graphics presenter 226 provides the visual game presentation process on the display to ultimately form a predetermined game outcome.

[0051]

[0063] The game sound presenter 228 provides the sound presentation process by using a sound controller and a speaker.

[0052]

[0064] Winning indicators 230 indicate winning combinations of prize symbols formed in game outcomes and payout terms.

[0053]

[0065] The reward provider 232 provides reward credits to the reward meter based on the winning evaluation.

[0054]

[0066] The application manager 234 manages the operation and status of each software module. In addition, the application manager 234 manages the configuration, progress, and status of the game application program 200.

[0055]

[0067] An external communicator 236 communicates commands and data to and from the system application programs 206 .

[0056]

[0068] The credit balance manager module 212 executes the processes for decrementing and incrementing the credit balance based on the total number of wins displayed on the win meter.

[0057]

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the system application programs 206 provide background processing and non-game specific functionality. The system application programs 206 include a number of software modules, including a system manager 238, a security manager 240, a slot management module 242, a currency unit manager 244, a data logger 246, a communications manager 248, a bill acceptor manager 250, a meter management module 252, and a cashout manager 254.

[0058]

[0070] The system application programs 206 may also include a game recall file 256 , an accounting log 258 , and a meter 260 .

[0059]

[0071] The system manager 238 is a software module for managing all background processing and non-game specific functions performed by the system application programs 206 .

[0060]

[0072] The security manager 240 is a software module for managing game validation, door security, and monitoring security sensors.

[0061]

[0073] The slot management module 242 is a software module for managing the storage of data and communicating with the external slot information system 62 .

[0062]

[0074] The currency unit manager 244 is a software module for setting the currency unit settings of the gaming machine 10. The currency unit settings may include 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 25 cents, 1 dollar, 5 dollars, and the like.

[0063]

[0075] The data logger 246 is a software module for recording the results of each primary game and free game bonus in a game recall. In addition, the data logger 246 stores error events, a bill log, a cash out log, a ticket log, and the like in an accounting log.

[0064]

[0076] The game recall file 256 is accumulated data that includes the results of the bonuses in each primary game and free game. The game recall file 256 is stored in non-volatile memory.

[0065]

[0077] The transaction log 258 is accumulated data including error events, bill logs, cash-out logs, ticket logs, etc. The transaction log 258 is stored in non-volatile memory.

[0066]

[0078] The communications manager 248 is a software module that manages communications between the game application programs 200 and the system application programs 206. The communications manager 248 also manages network communications between the system application programs 206 and external networks (such as a slot management system network, a G2S network, a gaming server for a server-based gaming network, or a VLT system network).

[0067]

[0079] The bill acceptor manager 250 is a software module for managing the bill acceptor and receives information on bills inserted into the bill acceptor. In response to receiving the information from the bill acceptor, the bill acceptor manager 250 communicates with the meter management module to increment the credit balance based on the inserted bill.

[0068]

[0080] The meter management module 252 is a software module for adjusting the values ​​of the meters 260 in response to communication with the gaming application program 200 via the communications manager 248, the bill acceptor manager 250, or the cashout manager 254. The meters 260 include a credit meter for indicating the current credit balance of the gaming machine, and a win meter for indicating the total number of wins for the current gaming session. The meters further include background meters such as coin in, coin return, total drop, waiter pay jackpot, and / or bill in. These meters may be implemented as data on non-volatile memory or as hardware meters.

[0069]

[0081] The cashout manager 254 is a software module for managing the cashout procedure. In response to a player's operation of the cashout button, the cashout manager 254 is activated and the gaming machine pays out the total amount of the credit meter.

[0070]

[0082] 9 and 10, in one embodiment, the present invention includes a network server computer system 300 configured to deliver games to one or more client computing devices 302 over the Internet. In the illustrated embodiment, the network computer system 300 includes an iGaming server system 304 communicatively connected to one or more client computing devices 302 via a communications network 306. The communications network 306 may be any suitable connection, including the Internet, an intranet, a LAN, a virtual private network (VPN), a cellular network, or the like. The communications network 306 may utilize any suitable technology or combination of technologies, which may include, but are not limited to, wired and wireless connections, full-time connections, periodic connections, and on-demand connections.

[0071]

[0083] The client computing device 302 may include any suitable device that allows a user to access and communicate with the server system 300, including transmitting information to and / or receiving information from the server system 300, and displaying information received from the server system 300 to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the client computing device 302 includes a processor coupled to a memory device. The memory device stores various programs and data executed by the processor to operate the client computing device 302. The client computing device 302 also includes an input device configured to receive operable input from a user, and a display device configured to display a graphical user interface. The input device and the display device enable a user to interact with the server system 300 via the client computing device 302. For example, in one embodiment, the client computing device 302 may include, but is not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop or notebook computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone / tablet computer hybrid, a personal data assistant, a handheld mobile device including a mobile phone, and the like. In one embodiment, the processor of the client computing device 302 may be programmed to function as the control unit 20 of the gaming machine 10.

[0072]

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, the client computing device may include a web browser program stored in a memory device and a processor may execute the web browser program to display web pages on a display device that include information received from the server system 300 and enable a user to interact with and manipulate the server system 300.

[0073]

[0085] In one embodiment, the client computing device 302 includes a mobile computing device 308 (see FIG. 10), such as, for example, a tablet computer, a smartphone / tablet computer hybrid, or a smartphone such as an iPhone®. The mobile computing device 308 includes a processor connected to a memory device for storing various programs and data for use in operating the mobile computing device 308. The mobile computing device 308 may include a display device 14 including a touch screen, one or more video imaging cameras, one or more speakers, a microphone, at least one input button, and one or more sensors including, but not limited to, a Touch ID fingerprint sensor, a barometer, a three-axis acceleration sensor, an accelerometer, a proximity sensor, and an ambient light sensor connected to the input button. In addition, the mobile computing device 308 may include a Wi-Fi antenna, a cellular network antenna, a Bluetooth® communication device, assisted GPS and GLONASS, a digital compass, and an iBeacon® micro-location device.

[0074]

[0086] The mobile computing device 308 may be programmed to store and execute mobile computer program applications that display a graphical user interface on the touch screen display device 14, including the display area 64, and that allow a user to use the display area 64 to access, retrieve, store, interact with, and manipulate information in the server system 300. Additionally, in one embodiment, the server system 300 may install one or more mobile computer application programs on the memory device of the mobile computing device 308. The mobile computer application programs, when initiated by the processor of the mobile computing device 308, cause the processor of the mobile computing device 308 to perform some or all of the functionality of the gaming machine 10.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the server system 300 includes one or more remote gaming servers 310, one or more back-end servers 312, one or more real money gaming website hosting servers 314, and one or more social gaming website hosting servers 316. In the illustrated embodiment, the social gaming website hosting server 316 and the real money gaming website hosting server 314 are programmed to host websites that users can access via one or more client computing devices 302. In response to requests received from users via the client computing devices 302, the website hosting servers 314 and 316 execute website application programs that retrieve application code from the back-end servers 312 and execute the application code to render one or more websites on a display device of the client computing device 302 to enable users to interact with the websites. The website hosting servers 314 and 316 are configured to generate and display web pages that display games. For example, the real money gaming website hosting servers 314 are configured to host real money betting websites that allow players to convert funds into gaming credits that can be used to place bets into games, and the social gaming website hosting servers 316 are configured to host social media and / or social gaming websites that allow players to accept gaming credits for activities such as purchasing goods and / or services via e-commerce websites and / or purchase gaming credits that can be used to play games.

[0076]

[0088] Each backend server 312 is configured to perform processing to support functionality of the web pages and / or websites displayed by website hosting servers 314 and 316. For example, in one embodiment, backend servers 312 may include a player account system server that generates player accounts including data associated with players, including, but not limited to, player identification information, player financial account information, player gaming credit account information, and / or any suitable player information that can be used to set credit meters to enable players to place wagers into games.

[0077]

[0089] Each remote gaming server 310 includes one or more copies of the game application program 200 stored in a memory device of the remote gaming server 310. A processor of the remote gaming server 310 is programmed to retrieve and transmit the game application program 200 to one or more backend servers 312 for displaying games to users via web pages displayed by a web browser program.

[0078]

[0090] In one embodiment, the game application program 200 may include instructions for rendering and executing a game on the client computing device 302. For example, the game application program 200 may include instructions for generating rendered code, such as HTML code, that can be used by a web browser program of the client computing device 302 to display the game. For example, the game application program 200 may include program software code, including, but not limited to, HTML, Java Script, cascade style sheets (CSS), and any suitable programming code that can be used to render and operate a game via a website and / or mobile computer application.

[0079]

[0091] In one embodiment, when the remote gaming server 310 receives a request from a website hosting server 314, 316 via the backend server 312, the remote gaming server 310 may execute the game application program 200 to run the game, perform a render-to-string operation to generate rendered code, such as HTML code, representing the game, and send the rendered code to the backend server 312. The backend server 312 may then send the rendered code to the corresponding website hosting server 314, 316 for displaying the game on the website. As players play the game, the remote gaming server 310 may execute the game application program 200 for each instance of the game and send the rendered code to the backend server 312.

[0080]

[0092] In another embodiment, the remote gaming server 310 may transmit the game application program 200 to a backend server 312 and / or a website hosting server 314, 316. The backend server 312 and / or the website hosting server 314, 316 may then execute the game application program 200 to start an instance of the game and perform a render-to-string process to generate rendered code representing the game.

[0081]

[0093] In yet another embodiment, the backend server 312 may receive a request to start a game from a mobile computing device 308 running a mobile computer application program. Upon receiving the request, the backend server 312 may access the game application program 200 and execute a render-to-string operation to generate rendered code representing the game and transmit the rendered code to the mobile computing device 308. In one embodiment, the backend server 312 may continuously execute the game application program 200 and generate each instance of the game using a random number generator of the backend server 312 based on input received from the mobile computing device 308, generate rendered code for each instance of the game and transmit it to the mobile computing device 308. In another embodiment, the backend server 312 may execute a partial-render operation to generate partially rendered code for the game using the game application program 200 and transmit the partially rendered code for the game and object data for the game assets to the mobile computing device 308. The partially rendered code includes instructions for generating rendered code using game assets and a random number generator of the mobile computing device to generate a game using a mobile computer application program and display on the mobile computing device 308.

[0082]

[0094] In one embodiment, the game application program 200 may be stored on multiple different servers. The game code on these servers is used to distribute the game content to social gaming websites or real money gaming websites and mobile applications. The distribution method is very flexible. For example, the game application program 200 including the game code and / or the game code and game object assets may be stored on a remote gaming server 310. A remote gaming server 310 may be connected to one or more backend servers 312.

[0083]

[0095] Each backend server 312 is configured to distribute the game to one or more websites or mobile applications. Players can connect to these websites / mobile applications using client devices or mobile devices to access the game content. A copy of the game application program 200 including the game code and game object assets is stored on the remote gaming server 310 for each backend server 312 that distributes the game connected to the remote gaming server 310. For example, if one remote gaming server 310 is connected to two backend servers 312, which in turn are connected to three website hosting servers 314, 316 that distribute the game, the remote gaming server 310 stores two copies of the game application program 200 including the game code and game object assets of the game (e.g., one copy for each backend server 312).

[0084]

[0096] For example, the server system 300 may be configured to run games on a mobile application, such as the "my KONAMI Slots" mobile application available for the Apple iOS, Google Android, and Amazon Kindle operating platforms, or on a social media website, such as "my KONAMI Slots" available on Facebook. In one embodiment, the mobile application may download game code from a remote gaming server 310 via a real money gaming site 314 or a social gaming site 316 and execute the game code on the client computing device 302. In this embodiment, the game code, when executed by a processor of the client computing device, may provide game specific / front end functionality and a back end server 312 may provide general purpose / back end functionality.

[0085]

[0097] 14 and 15 are flow charts of methods 400 and 500 illustrating algorithms included in the gaming application program 200 and executed by the processor 38 in executing the gaming application program 200 to operate the gaming machine 10 and / or the iGaming server system 304 to generate and render an animation sequence of computer-generated images on a graphic user interface screen to display a game to a player. The methods include a number of steps. Each method step may be performed independently of or in combination with other method steps. Portions of the methods may be performed by any of the components of the gaming machine 10 and / or the iGaming server system 304, or any combination of those components.

[0086]

[0098] For example, the game application program 200 may include computer-executable instructions for providing a Lucky Kicker® bonus feature event included in the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game offered by Konami Gaming® Inc.

[0087]

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the game application program 200 includes computer instructions for generating a primary game 68 (see FIGS. 3, 6, 18) and a bonus reel game 69 (see FIGS. 17-24). Generally, the bonus reel game 69 is executed when a trigger event is detected during the primary game 68. In one embodiment, the primary game 68 comprises a reel-style game including a number of virtual reels that spin and stop to display the outcome of the primary game. In other embodiments, the primary game 68 may include a card game, a bingo game, a keno game, and / or any suitable casino-style wagering game.

[0088]

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 20 is programmed to execute the algorithms illustrated in methods 400 and 500 for executing games, rendering computer animated sequences of computer generated images, and displaying a computer animated primary reel game 68 and a computer animated bonus reel game 69 on the display device 14.

[0089]

[0101] In method step 402, the processor 38 of the control unit 20 renders on the display device 14 a primary game image 118 (see FIGS. 3, 16, 18) including a plurality of virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 displayed within a primary game reel window 120. The primary game reel window 120 displays a grid 80 including a plurality of cells 82 arranged in a plurality of rows (r) and columns (c). Each primary game reel 70-78 is displayed in a corresponding column. As shown in FIGS. 3, 16, and 18, the primary game reel window 120 may include a 3×5 cell configuration (3-3-3-3-3) including fifteen cells 82.

[0090]

[0102] In method step 404, processor 38 initiates an instance of computer animated primary reel game 68 by animating a plurality of virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, simulating the spinning of the plurality of virtual reels via primary game reel window 120, sequentially stopping the plurality of virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, and displaying a game outcome (see FIG. 18). In the game outcome shown in FIG. 18, six trigger symbols (six coin images including one blue coin image) trigger a bonus game with a lucky kicker bonus feature, as described in FIG. 26. In other embodiments, for example, as described in the same figure, a double game feature may be awarded if the trigger game outcome includes a red coin, and an extra spin feature may be awarded if the trigger game outcome includes a green coin. Here, the double game feature refers to providing a bonus game on two screens by adding one game screen, and the extra spin feature refers to increasing the maximum number of remaining spins in the bonus game by one. The double game feature provides multiple display areas by adding game screens, and allows a bonus game to be provided in each display area. Furthermore, multiple game screens may be added by the double game feature. In a bonus game in which the extra spin feature is applied, the game ends when the preset number of remaining spins reaches zero. The number of remaining spins decreases each time a bonus game is provided. If the displayed symbols include a special symbol, the number of remaining spins is reset to a default number. If a green coin is included in the trigger game outcome, the number of times the remaining spins are reset to the default can be increased. Furthermore, in one embodiment, if coins of different colors are included in the trigger game outcome, game features associated with each coin can be applied simultaneously.That is, the slot machine provides a bonus game if the symbols displayed as a game outcome satisfy a predetermined trigger condition, applies special rules to the bonus game if the symbols included in the game outcome satisfying the trigger condition satisfy the predetermined condition, and does not apply special rules to the bonus game if the symbols included in the game outcome satisfying the trigger condition do not satisfy the predetermined condition. For example, the processor 38 may receive a signal from the display device 14 and / or the control unit 32 indicating a player's request to initiate an instance or play of the game 66. In one embodiment, the player may transmit a request to initiate an instance or play of the game 66 by touching a corresponding button icon displayed on the touch screen of the display device 14 or by pressing a corresponding "spin" button on the control unit 32. Upon receiving the signal from the display device 14 and / or the control unit 32, the processor 38 generates virtual reels 70-78 for use in the primary game 68, animates the virtual reels 70-78, and initiates an instance of the game 66 by simulating the spinning of the virtual reels 70-78 through the grid 80.

[0091]

[0103] In method steps 406-416, processor 38 randomly determines an outcome for an instance of primary game 68, spins virtual reels 70-78, and sequentially stops virtual reels 70-78 to display a randomly generated outcome including the game symbol displayed in each cell 82 of grid 80. For example, in one embodiment, processor 38 initiates a spin of each virtual reel 70-78, obtains a random number from a random number generator, and determines a stop position for each virtual reel 70-78 based on the random number and reel stop position data file 108. In the illustrated embodiment, reel stop position data file 108 includes a range of random numbers associated with each symbol position in a sequence of symbol positions associated with the virtual reels. In one embodiment, processor 38 may obtain a random number for each virtual reel 70-78 (i.e., five random numbers). Processor 38 then sets a reel stop counter "i", setting reel stop counter (i) equal to one. Processor 38 then identifies the i-th virtual reel strip associated with stop counter (i) and stops the identified virtual reel strip to display corresponding symbols in the corresponding cells 82 associated with the identified virtual reel strip. Processor 38 then increments reel stop counter (i) by one (i.e., i=i+1), identifies a virtual reel associated with the incremented reel stop counter, and repeats the process of stopping the identified virtual reel. This process continues until each virtual reel has been stopped. In this embodiment, for example, the virtual reels are numbered 1 through 5. In one embodiment, a player may stop the reels by pressing a spin button while the reels are spinning, which allows the player to accelerate game play.

[0092]

[0104] In method step 418, processor 38 determines whether a trigger condition is detected in the outcome of primary game 68. If a trigger condition is detected during primary game 68, processor 38 in method step 420 executes method 500 to initiate a bonus feature event and execute a bonus reel game 69 (see Figures 17-24).

[0093]

[0105] In method step 422, upon completion of the primary game 68 and / or bonus reel game 69, processor 38 determines and awards a reward associated with the outcome of the primary game 68 and / or bonus feature event. For example, processor 38 may determine whether a winning combination of symbols displayed in the outcome of an instance of the primary game 68 and / or bonus reel game 69 was a winning combination and award a reward by increasing a credit meter balance based on the amount of the reward.

[0094]

[0106] In method step 502, processor 38 is programmed to detect a trigger condition (see FIGS. 16 and 18) that includes the appearance of a plurality of special symbols 122 in the outcome of primary game 68 at which the primary reel is stopped. In the illustrated embodiment, special symbols 122 are displayed as coin images 124 (see FIG. 16). In other embodiments, any suitable special symbol image may be used. In one embodiment, special symbols 122 may include different types of special symbols, which may be displayed as coin images that are given a color and / or a picture indicative of the type of special symbol. FIGS. 25-27 are screenshots illustrating HTML code that constitutes help screens for the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game. As shown in the HTML code, special symbols in the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game include three types of special symbols that are displayed as blue, green, or red coin images in addition to the standard special symbols that are displayed as gold coin images. As shown in the HTML code in FIG. 26, these three special symbols in a trigger condition will trigger different game features.

[0095]

[0107] 17-24 are screenshots showing a portion of the screen transitions of the bonus game of the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game. In the illustrated embodiment, upon detecting a trigger condition including the appearance of a plurality of special symbols 122 in the game outcome, the processor 38 animates a bonus game transition screen 126 on the display device 14 and then renders a bonus game screen 128 on the display device 14 having a reel display area 130 in which a plurality of virtual independent reels 132 are displayed. The plurality of virtual independent reels are displayed within a bonus game reel window 134 having a grid 80 including a plurality of cells 82 arranged in a plurality of rows (r) and columns (c), with each virtual independent reel 132 displayed in a corresponding cell 82. The processor 38 also renders a bonus credit meter 136 above the reel display area 130, which displays a bonus game credit amount. As shown in FIG. 17, in some embodiments, the bonus credit meter 136 is initially displayed without displaying a bonus game credit amount. In other embodiments, the bonus credit meter 136 may be displayed to indicate an initial bonus game credit amount that is determined based on the triggering conditions.

[0096]

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the reel display area 130 includes a substantially rectangular shape extending between a top edge 140 and a bottom edge 142, and between an outer left edge 144 and an outer right edge 146. The bonus game reel window 134 is displayed within the reel display area 130 and includes the same cell arrangement as the primary game reel window 120, and is displayed in an initial reel window state 148 having a window height 150 defined along a number of rows (r) and an initial window width 152 defined along a number of columns (c).

[0097]

[0109] For example, in the illustrated embodiment, processor 38 displays primary game screen 118 in a 3-row, 5-column (3-3-3-3-3) arrangement of 15 cells 82, including a primary game reel window 120 in which five virtual reels 70-78 are displayed, and changes primary game screen 118 to a bonus game screen 128 in which 15 cells 82 are displayed in a 3-row, 5-column (3-3-3-3-3) arrangement of 15 cells 82, including fifteen virtual independent reels 132. In the initial reel window state 148, bonus game reel window 134 includes the same window height 150 and the same window width 152 as primary game reel window 120. Processor 38 may also generate each virtual independent reel 132 as an independent single-symbol reel 109 using single-symbol reel strip data file 112 (see FIG. 11B ). Processor 38 also displays, within corresponding cells 82 of the displayed bonus game reel window 134 , special symbols 122 that are included in the trigger conditions occurring in the outcome of primary game 68 .

[0098]

[0110] In method step 504, processor 38 initiates an instance of computer-generated bonus reel game 69 and animates a plurality of bonus symbols 154 in corresponding cells 82 of bonus game reel window 134 displayed in initial reel window state 148 to replace each special symbol 122. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, processor 38 converts each special symbol 122 displayed as a coin image 124 into a bonus symbol 154. Bonus symbols 154 may be displayed as credit symbol images 156 or progressive prize symbol images 158 (see FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 24). Credit symbol images 156 may include a coin image overlaid with a credit amount, and progressive prize symbol images 158 may include a coin image overlaid with a progressive prize indicator (e.g., “MegaBonus”, “MajorBonus”, “MinorBonus”, “MiniBonus”).

[0099]

[0111] In some embodiments, processor 38 may access an internal reel strip data file 160 (see FIG. 11D ) for use in selecting a bonus symbol 154 for each special symbol 122. The internal reel strip data file 160 has one or more internal reel strips 162 that include a plurality of credit symbols 156 and progressive prize symbols 158 associated with a plurality of reel stop positions 106.

[0100]

[0112] In method step 506, the processor 38 is programmed to change the bonus game reel window 134 from the initial reel window state 148 to the modified reel window state 164 by animating the bonus game reel window 134 to decrease the width of the bonus game reel window 134 from the initial window width 152 to a final window width 166 that is smaller than the initial window width 152, and define a bonus reel area 168 between the modified bonus game reel window 134 and an outer edge of the reel display area 130. The processor 38 can also animate the bonus game reel window 134 from the initial window width 152 to the final window width 166 without changing the window height 150 of the bonus game reel window 134.

[0101]

[0113] For example, as shown in FIGS. 20A-21 , processor 38 may render bonus game reel window 134 in an initial reel window state 148 displaying each column having an initial column width 170, and change bonus game reel window 134 from initial reel window state 148 to modified reel window state 164 by animating each column to decrease its corresponding column width from the initial column width 170 to a final column width 172 that is less than the initial column width 170. In addition, processor 38 may animate bonus symbols 154 closer to each other as bonus game reel window 134 is animated to modified reel window state 164. Processor 38 may also display each bonus symbol 154 with a constant width 174 as bonus game reel window 134 changes from initial reel window state 148 to modified reel window state 164, with bonus symbols 154 animated closer to each other without changing the size and / or shape of bonus symbols 154.

[0102]

[0114] Processor 38 also animates a bonus separate reel window 176 that displays a bonus separate reel appearing in a bonus reel area 168 defined between the changed reel window and an outer edge of reel display area 130. For example, as shown in FIGS. 20A-21 , processor 38 animates the bonus separate reel window 176 sliding from the outer right edge 146 of reel display area 130 into bonus reel area 168 as the bonus game reel window 134 changes from the initial reel window state 148 to the modified reel window state 164. In the illustrated embodiment, bonus reel area 168 is defined between the changed bonus game reel window 134 and the outer right edge 146 of reel display area 130. In other embodiments, bonus reel area 168 is defined between the changed bonus game reel window 134 and the outer left edge 144 of reel display area 130.

[0103]

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the bonus separate reel window 176 is displayed with a reel height 180 that is smaller than the window height 150 of the bonus game reel window 134, and a reel width 182 that is larger than the final column width 172 of the columns displayed in the modified reel window state 164 and smaller than the final window width 166 of the bonus game reel window 134. The bonus separate reel 178 may be displayed as a spinning bonus coin image 184 or may be generated as a single symbol reel that displays a single game symbol in the bonus separate reel window 176 when the bonus separate reel 178 is in a stopped position.

[0104]

[0116] For example, the processor 38 may access a bonus independent reel strip data file 186 (see FIG. 11C ) for use in selecting a bonus symbol 154 to be displayed on the bonus independent reel 178. The bonus independent reel strip data file 186 has a bonus independent reel strip 188 that includes a pictorial symbol (e.g., “Pic-DarkCoin”) and one or more variable inner symbols (“inner-COIN”) associated with the plurality of reel stop positions 106. If a variable inner symbol is selected, the processor 38 may access a bonus variable reel strip data file 190 (see FIG. 11E ) that includes a plurality of bonus credit symbols 156 associated with the plurality of reel stop positions 106.

[0105]

[0117] In method step 508, the processor 38 is programmed to initiate a bonus reel game 69 including a predetermined number of spins of the virtual independent reel 132. For example, as shown in FIGS. 22-24, the bonus reel game 69 may initially include three free spins of the virtual independent reel 132 and animate the spin counter 192 (see FIG. 17) to appear above the bonus game reel window 134. The processor 38 then executes an instance of the bonus reel game 69 by spinning and stopping the virtual independent reel 132 and displays the outcome of the instance of the bonus reel game 69. For example, the processor 38 animates the virtual independent reel 132 and the bonus independent reel 178 and spins the virtual independent reel 132 and the bonus independent reel 178 while retaining the plurality of bonus symbols 154 displayed in the modified bonus game reel window 134. The processor 38 sequentially stops the spinning virtual independent reel 132 and the bonus independent reel 178 to display the outcome of the bonus game. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, processor 38 may display bonus independent reel 178 as a spinning bonus coin image 184 that is animated to rotate about axis of rotation 194 and stop to indicate a bonus game outcome.

[0106]

[0118] In method step 510, upon stopping the virtual independent reels 132 and the bonus independent reels 178, the processor 38 determines whether one or more of the stopped virtual independent reels 132 display a special symbol 122 (e.g., a variable “inner-MAN” symbol) in the bonus game reel window 134. If a special symbol 122 is detected to be displayed in the bonus game reel window 134 with the reels stopped, the processor 38 executes method step 512, which sequentially animates and moves coin images from each corresponding bonus symbol 154 displayed in the bonus game reel window 134 to the bonus credit meter 136 and modifies the bonus credit meter 136 by increasing the credit amount by the credit amount associated with and / or displayed by each bonus symbol 154.

[0107]

[0119] After modifying the bonus credit meter 136, processor 38 executes method step 514 to reset the remaining number of free spins by animating the spin counter 192 to reset to a predetermined number of spins. Processor 38 then executes method step 516 to convert each displayed special symbol 122 into a bonus symbol 154. For example, processor 38 may access an internal reel strip data file 160 (see FIG. 11D ) for use in selecting a bonus symbol 154 for each special symbol 122, and convert each special symbol 122 into a bonus symbol 154 that is displayed as a credit symbol image 156 or a progressive prize symbol image 158. Processor 38 then returns to method step 508 to animate the virtual independent reels 132 and the bonus independent reels 178 to sequentially spin and stop while the bonus symbol 154 is held.

[0108]

[0120] If processor 38 detects that no special symbol 122 is displayed in bonus game reel window 134 with the reels stopped, processor 38 executes method step 518 to determine whether a bonus symbol 154 is displayed on bonus separate reel 178. If a bonus symbol 154 is detected to be displayed on bonus separate reel 178, processor 38 executes method steps 512-516 to sequentially animate and move coin images from each corresponding bonus symbol 154 displayed in bonus game reel window 134 and bonus separate reel 178 to bonus credit meter 136 and modify bonus credit meter 136 by incrementing the bonus game credit amount by the credit amount associated with and / or displayed for each bonus symbol 154. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, processor 38 may animate bonus separate reel 178 to display a bonus coin image 184 and spin and stop bonus coin image 184 to display credit amount 156. Processor 38 then modifies bonus credit meter 136 by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the credit amount displayed on bonus coin image 184 and the credit amount displayed on each bonus symbol 154 displayed in bonus game reel window 134.

[0109]

[0121] If processor 38 detects that no bonus symbols 154 are displayed on bonus independent reel 178, processor 38 executes method step 520 to animate a spin counter 192 to decrement by one free spin. Processor 38 then executes method step 522 to determine the number of free spins remaining, e.g., whether the spin counter equals zero spins remaining. If free spins remain, processor 38 executes method step 508 to initiate another instance of bonus reel game 69. If no free spins remain, processor 38 ends bonus reel game 69, animates a transition screen on the display device to display primary game screen 118, and returns to method step 402.

[0110]

[0122] Exemplary embodiments of gaming machines, gaming systems, and methods for providing rewards to players have been described above in detail. The gaming machines, systems, and methods are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather the gaming machines and / or system components and / or method steps may be used separately and independently from other components and / or steps described herein. For example, the gaming machines may be used in combination with other gaming systems and methods, and are not limited to implementations using only the gaming machines described herein. Rather, the exemplary embodiments may be implemented and utilized in connection with many other gaming system applications.

[0111]

[0123] A controller, computing device, or computer as described herein includes at least one or more processors or processing units and a system memory. A controller typically also includes at least some form of computer-readable media. By way of example, computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology that allows for the storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. Those skilled in the art should be familiar with the modulated data signal, which has one or more of its characteristics set or changed to encode information within the signal. Combinations of any of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0112]

[0124] The order of execution or performance of operations in the embodiments of the invention illustrated and described herein is not required, unless otherwise specified. That is, operations described herein may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and embodiments of the invention may include more or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is intended to be within the scope of aspects of the invention for a particular operation to be performed before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation.

[0113]

[0125] In some embodiments, a processor as described herein includes any programmable system, including systems and microcontrollers, reduced instruction set circuits (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), programmable logic circuits (PLC), and any other circuit or processor capable of performing the functions described herein. The above examples are merely illustrative, and thus are not intended to limit in any way the definition and / or meaning of the term processor.

[0114]

[0126] This specification uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables one skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Other aspects and features of the invention can be obtained from study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims. It should also be noted that the steps and / or functions recited in the appended claims are not limited to any particular order of operation, regardless of the order in which those steps and / or features are recited therein.

[0115]

[0127] Although specific features of various embodiments of the invention may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is merely a matter of convenience, and in accordance with the principles of the invention, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and / or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

[0116]

[0128] This disclosure also includes the following provisions: [Clause 1] A cabinet and a display device attached to the cabinet; a control unit operably connected to the display device and including a processor programmed to execute an algorithm for rendering an animated sequence of computer-generated images on the display device, the algorithm comprising: rendering on the display device a bonus game screen including a reel display area having a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window including a plurality of cells arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, the reel window being displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along the plurality of rows and an initial window width defined along the plurality of columns, each virtual independent reel being displayed in a corresponding cell; and animating a plurality of bonus symbols into corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state; transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window to reduce a width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width less than the initial window width, defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; an animation of a bonus independent reel window displaying a bonus independent reel is displayed within the bonus reel area formed between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; and and initiating an instance of a computer-animated bonus reel game by animating the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel, spinning the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel while the plurality of bonus symbols are held, and stopping the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to indicate a bonus game outcome. [Clause 2] The processor, displaying the bonus independent reel as a bonus coin image; and and animating the bonus coin image, rotating it about a pivot axis, and stopping it to indicate the outcome of the bonus game. [Clause 3] The processor, rendering a bonus credit meter above the reel display area that displays a bonus game credit amount; animating the bonus coin image to rotate and freeze to display the credit amount; and and modifying the bonus credit meter by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the credit amount displayed in the bonus coin image and the credit amount displayed in each bonus symbol. [Article 4] The gaming machine of clause 1, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm, which includes a step of animating a bonus independent reel window to slide from an outer edge of the reel display area into the bonus reel area as the reel window transforms from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state. [Article 5] The processor, rendering the reel window into an initial reel window state displaying each column having an initial column width; and transforming the reel window from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating each column to reduce a corresponding column width from an initial column width to a final column width that is smaller than the initial column width. [Article 6] The gaming machine of clause 5, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm, the algorithm including the step of animating the bonus symbols and moving them closer to each other as the reel windows are animated into modified reel window states. [Article 7] The gaming machine of clause 6, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm, the algorithm including a step of displaying each bonus symbol with a constant width as the reel window is transformed from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state. [Article 8] The gaming machine of clause 7, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm, the algorithm including a step of displaying at least one bonus symbol including a coin image overlaid with a credit amount. [Article 9] The processor, animating the virtual separate reel and the bonus separate reel to spin and stop while holding the bonus symbol in place; and and upon detecting another bonus symbol appearing on the virtual independent reel or the bonus independent reel, awarding an additional free spin. [Article 10] 1. A method of operating a gaming machine including a cabinet, a display device mounted to the cabinet, and a control unit including a processor operatively connected to the display device, the method including the processor executing an algorithm for rendering an animated sequence of computer generated images on the display device, the algorithm comprising: rendering on the display device a bonus game screen including a reel display area having a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window including a plurality of cells arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, the reel window being displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along the plurality of rows and an initial window width defined along the plurality of columns, each virtual independent reel being displayed in a corresponding cell; and animating a plurality of bonus symbols into corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state; transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window to reduce a width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width less than the initial window width, defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; an animation of a bonus independent reel window displaying a bonus independent reel is displayed within the bonus reel area formed between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; and and initiating an instance of a computer-animated bonus reel game by animating the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel, spinning the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel while the plurality of bonus symbols are held, and stopping the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to indicate a bonus game outcome. [Article 11] displaying the bonus independent reel as a bonus coin image; and and animating the bonus coin image to rotate about a pivot axis and to stop it to indicate the outcome of the bonus game. [Article 12] rendering a bonus credit meter above the reel display area that displays a bonus game credit amount; animating the bonus coin image to rotate and freeze to display the credit amount; and and modifying the bonus credit meter by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the credit amount displayed in the bonus coin image and the credit amount displayed in each bonus symbol. [Article 13] The method of claim 10, comprising the processor being programmed to execute the algorithm including the step of animating a bonus separate reel window to slide from an outer edge of the reel display area into the bonus reel area as the reel window transforms from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state. [Article 14] rendering the reel window into an initial reel window state displaying each column having an initial column width; and transforming the reel window from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating each column to reduce a corresponding column width from an initial column width to a final column width that is smaller than the initial column width. [Article 15] 15. The method of claim 14, comprising the processor being programmed to execute the algorithm including the step of animating the bonus symbols and moving them closer together as the reel windows are animated into modified reel window states. [Article 16] 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the processor includes the processor being programmed to execute the algorithm including the step of displaying each bonus symbol with a constant width as the reel window is transformed from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state. [Article 17] 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the processor includes the processor being programmed to execute the algorithm including the step of displaying at least one bonus symbol including a coin image overlaid with a credit amount. [Article 18] A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable instructions embodied therein for operating a gaming machine including a cabinet, a display device mounted in the cabinet, and a controller including a processor operatively connected to the display device, the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the processor, causing the processor to execute an algorithm for rendering an animated sequence of computer-generated images on the display device, the algorithm comprising: rendering on the display device a bonus game screen including a reel display area having a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window including a plurality of cells arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, the reel window being displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along the plurality of rows and an initial window width defined along the plurality of columns, each virtual independent reel being displayed in a corresponding cell; and animating a plurality of bonus symbols into corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state; transforming the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window to reduce a width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width less than the initial window width, defining a bonus reel area between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; an animation of a bonus independent reel window displaying a bonus independent reel is displayed within the bonus reel area formed between the transformed reel window and an outer edge of the reel display area; and and initiating an instance of a computer-animated bonus reel game by animating the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to spin the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel while the plurality of bonus symbols are held, and stopping the virtual independent reel and the bonus independent reel to display a bonus game outcome. [Article 19] The computer executable instructions may be configured to cause a processor to: displaying the bonus independent reel as a bonus coin image; and and animating the bonus coin image to rotate about a pivot axis and to stop it to indicate the outcome of the bonus game. [Article 20] The computer executable instructions may be configured to cause a processor to: rendering a bonus credit meter above the reel display area that displays a bonus game credit amount; animating the bonus coin image to rotate and freeze to display the credit amount; and and modifying the bonus credit meter by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the credit amount displayed in the bonus coin image and the credit amount displayed in each bonus symbol. [Article 21] The computer executable instructions may be configured to cause a processor to: 19. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of clause 18 for executing the algorithm, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including the step of animating the bonus independent reel window to slide from an outer edge of the reel display area into the bonus reel area as the reel window transforms from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 10: gaming machine, 14: display device (an example of a display unit), 20: control unit, 32: operation unit.

Claims

1. an operation unit that accepts operations by a player; A display unit that displays a game screen; A control unit connected to the operation unit and the display unit, The control unit, in response to the player operating the operation unit, displaying randomly determined symbols as game results in a matrix-shaped display area provided on the display unit; When the symbol displayed as the game result satisfies a predetermined trigger condition, a bonus game is awarded. applying a special rule to the bonus game if a symbol included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfies a predetermined condition; The gaming machine does not apply the special rule to the bonus game unless the symbol included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfies the predetermined condition.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit applies a special rule to the bonus game according to the type of the symbol that satisfies the trigger condition.

3. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays, as the bonus game, randomly determined symbols in a display area arranged in a matrix on the display unit, and if the displayed symbol is a specific symbol, holds it and plays a next game, repeating this process until a condition for ending the bonus game is satisfied.

4. The symbols include a plurality of types of trigger symbols, 4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the trigger condition is that a predetermined number or more of the trigger symbols are displayed, and the control unit applies a special rule to the bonus game according to the type of the trigger symbol included in the trigger condition.

5. the trigger symbols include a first trigger symbol; The gaming machine according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit applies a special rule for adding a position for displaying the symbol outside the display area when the trigger condition includes the first trigger symbol.

6. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein, in the bonus game to which a special rule for adding a position for displaying the symbol is applied, the control unit does not hold the specific symbol at the added symbol display position.

7. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein, when applying a special rule for adding a position for displaying the symbol outside the display area, the control unit displays an animation of a step of reducing the display area displayed on the display unit and a step of adding a position for displaying the symbol adjacent to the reduced display area.

8. the trigger symbols include a second trigger symbol; 6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the control unit, when the trigger condition includes the second trigger symbol, displays a plurality of the display areas and provides the bonus game in each of the display areas.

9. the trigger symbols include a third trigger symbol; The condition for ending the bonus game is that the number of remaining games, which is initially set to a predetermined number, becomes 0, The control unit is decrementing the number of remaining games every time the bonus game is provided, and resetting the number of remaining games to an initial setting if the displayed symbol is a special symbol; The gaming machine according to claim 5 , wherein, when the trigger condition includes the third trigger symbol, a number of times for initially setting the remaining number of games is increased.

10. 1. A gaming method for providing a game using a gaming machine having an operation unit that accepts player operations and a display unit that displays a game screen, comprising: In response to the player operating the operation unit, displaying randomly determined symbols as game results in a matrix-shaped display area provided on the display unit; When the symbol displayed as the game result satisfies a predetermined trigger condition, a bonus game is awarded. applying a special rule to the bonus game if a symbol included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfies a predetermined condition; The gaming method does not apply the special rule to the bonus game unless the symbol included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfies the predetermined condition.

11. A program for operating a gaming machine having an operation unit that accepts operations by a player, a display unit that displays a game screen, and a control unit that is connected to the operation unit and the display unit, the control unit comprising: In response to the player operating the operation unit, displaying randomly determined symbols as game results in a matrix-shaped display area provided on the display unit; When the symbol displayed as the game result satisfies a predetermined trigger condition, a bonus game is awarded. applying a special rule to the bonus game if a symbol included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfies a predetermined condition; a program that operates so that the special rule is not applied to the bonus game unless a symbol included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfies the predetermined condition;

Images