Gaming machine, and control method for displaying computer animation reel games using the gaming 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]

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

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] Gaming machines represented by slot machines are very popular among casino customers as devices that provide games that can be easily enjoyed, and recent statistics report that the sales of gaming machines account for more than half of the casino sales. The initial slot machines were simple devices that accepted coin insertion, rotated and stopped mechanically configured reels in response to handle operations, and determined wins and losses based on the combination of symbols stopped on a single payline. However, recent gaming machines have rapidly advanced to highly sophisticated 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, or various gaming machines that apply similar technologies to other casino games. For manufacturers developing these gaming machines, providing attractive games that strongly attract casino customers as players and improving the functionality of gaming machines have become important themes.

Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0003] In one embodiment of the present invention, a gaming machine is provided. The gaming machine includes a cabinet, a display device mounted on 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 a sequence of computer-generated images on the display device, which includes the step of displaying a bonus game screen on a display device having a reel display area including a plurality of virtual independent reels displayed in 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 an instance of the computer-animated bonus reel game by animating multiple bonus symbols to appear in the corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state, deforms the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window, reduces the width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width smaller than the initial window width, defines a bonus reel area between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, animates a bonus independent reel window to display the bonus independent reels to appear in the bonus reel area defined between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, animates the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to spin the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels with multiple bonus symbols held in place, stops the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to display the bonus game result.

[0004]

[0004] In another embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided using a gaming machine. The gaming machine includes a cabinet, a display device mounted on the cabinet, and a control unit including a processor operably connected to the display device. The method includes a processor programmed to execute an algorithm that displays a sequence of computer-generated image animations on the display device, which includes the step of 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, which includes 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 its corresponding cell. The processor initiates an instance of the computer-animated bonus reel game by animating multiple bonus symbols to appear in the corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state, deforms the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window, reduces the width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width smaller than the initial window width, defines a bonus reel area between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, animates a bonus independent reel window to display the bonus independent reels to appear in the bonus reel area defined between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, animates the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to spin the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels with multiple bonus symbols held in place, stops the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to display the bonus game result.

[0005]

[0005] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions is provided. The gaming machine includes a cabinet, a display device mounted in 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 that displays on the display device a sequence of computer-generated images, which includes the step of 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, which includes 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 its corresponding cell. The processor initiates an instance of the computer-animated bonus reel game by animating multiple bonus symbols to appear in the corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state, deforms the reel window from the initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating the reel window, reduces the width of the reel window from the initial window width to a final window width smaller than the initial window width, defines a bonus reel area between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, animates a bonus independent reel window to display the bonus independent reels to appear in the bonus reel area defined between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, animates the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to spin the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels with multiple bonus symbols held in place, stops the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to display the bonus game result. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1A]This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1C] This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1D] This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1E] This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1F] This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1G] This is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figures 1A to 1G show the functional block diagrams of the gaming machine. [Figure 3] This is a diagram of a game displayed on the display area of ​​a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a diagram of a virtual reel used in a game relating to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the function of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the function of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the function of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram of a game control unit used to perform the function of running games on a gaming machine. [Figure 9] This is a functional block diagram of a server computer system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a front view of a mobile computing device used in a server computer system. [Figure 11A] Figures 3, 4, and 16-24 show exemplary reel strip data files used to generate the virtual reels, where the symbol arrangement indicates the sequence of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11B] Figures 3, 4, and 16-24 show exemplary reel strip data files used to generate the virtual reels, where the symbol arrangement indicates the sequence of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11C] Figures 3, 4, and 16-24 show exemplary reel strip data files used to generate the virtual reels, where the symbol arrangement indicates the sequence of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11D] Figures 3, 4, and 16-24 show exemplary reel strip data files used to generate the virtual reels, where the symbol arrangement indicates the sequence of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 11E] Figures 3, 4, and 16-24 show exemplary reel strip data files used to generate the virtual reels, where the symbol arrangement indicates the sequence of symbols displayed in the game display area. [Figure 12] This is a diagram of a reel stop position data file used to run a game according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of paylines set in the game judgment area. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows an algorithm used to generate and display an animation sequence 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] This flowchart shows an algorithm used to generate and display an animation sequence 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] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 17] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 18] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 19] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 20A] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 20B] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 21] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 22] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 23] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 24] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 25] An exemplary diagram of an animation sequence of a computer-generated image of a game screen showing the algorithms shown in FIGS. 14 to 15. [Figure 26]Figures 14 and 15 are illustrative diagrams of the animation sequence of computer-generated images of the game screen illustrating the algorithm shown. [Figure 27] Figures 14 and 15 are illustrative diagrams of the animation sequence of computer-generated images of the game screen illustrating the algorithm shown. Detailed description of the embodiment

[0007]

[0019] Throughout the drawing, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts.

[0008]

[0020] The present invention relates to a gaming machine, a method for controlling the gaming machine, and a program for a gaming machine and / or mobile computing device that provides a game to a player, with reference to the attached drawings. The gaming machine according to this embodiment receives a predetermined game value from the player, generates a game result, and provides the player with a payout according to the game result and one or more paytables. The gaming machine has a gaming cabinet including a display device and a user input device. The display device includes a display configured to show computer-generated graphics. The user input device includes a number of input buttons that allow the player to start gameplay 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 number of virtual reels that display game symbols in a grid. The control unit is programmed to animate the virtual reels to simulate their rotation on the grid and to stop the virtual reels to display the game result. The control unit is also programmed to generate and display an animation sequence of computer-generated images on the graphic user interface screen to display bonus features related to the game.

[0009]

[0021] Referring to Figures 1A to 1G, in the illustrated embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes a cabinet 12 that provides a display device 14 (an 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 Figure 2) that controls each part (see below). The control unit 20 also implements a random number generator (RNG) used during game operation. The following describes each component.

[0010]

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

[0011]

[0023] The speakers 26 are located on the left and right sides of the cabinet 12 and are controlled via the control unit 20 to provide sound to the player. The control panel 16 is equipped with a banknote / ticket identification device 28, a printer device 30, and an operation unit 32.

[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 that recognizes a player identification card, a display that presents data to the player, and a keypad that accepts input from the player. This type of player tracking unit 18 works in coordination with the control unit 20 or an external system, described later, to read information recorded on a player identification card inserted into the card reader by the player, and displays that information and / or information obtained by communicating with the external system on the display. Furthermore, input from the player is accepted by the keypad, the display changes according to the input, and communication with the external system is performed as necessary.

[0013]

[0025] The banknote / ticket identification device 28 is positioned on the control panel 16 with an insertion opening into which banknotes / tickets are inserted exposed. Inside the insertion opening is an identification unit that identifies banknotes / tickets using various sensors, and a banknote / ticket storage unit is provided on the output side of the identification unit. The banknote / ticket identification device 28 receives banknotes / tickets (including vouchers and coupons) that represent game value, identifies them as game execution value, and notifies the control unit 20, which will be described later.

[0014]

[0026] The printer device 30 is positioned on the control panel 16 with its ticket output slot exposed. Inside the ticket output slot is a printing unit for printing predetermined information onto paper, and a storage unit for storing the printing paper is provided on the paper input side of the printing unit. Under the control of the control unit 20 (described later), the printer device 30 prints the information onto the paper and outputs tickets from the gaming machine 10 according to the credit payout process. The output tickets can be inserted into the banknote / ticket identification device 28 of another gaming machine, allowing the dispensed credits to be used for gameplay, or they can be exchanged for cash at a kiosk terminal or casino cage within the casino.

[0015]

[0027] The control unit 32 receives input from the player. The control unit 32 includes a group of buttons 34 that receive various instructions from the player of the gaming machine 10. For example, the control unit 32 may include a group of spin buttons and a group of setting buttons. The spin button receives an instruction to start an instance of the game (start spinning the reels). The group of setting buttons 34 includes a group of bet buttons, a group of line selection buttons, a max bet button, and a payout button. The group of bet buttons receives instructions from the player regarding the amount of credits (bet amount) to bet. The group of line selection buttons receives instructions from the player to specify a payline related to line determination, which will be described later. The max bet button receives instructions regarding the maximum amount of credits that the player can bet at one time. The payout button receives an instruction to pay out the 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 and determines a credit balance, a verification tool configured to identify physical media, and a plurality of user input devices which may include a cash-out button that can initiate a payout associated with the credit balance. The acceptor device may include a touchscreen display associated with the display device 14 and / or the player tracking unit 18, a banknote / ticket identification device 28, an operating unit 32, the player tracking unit 18, a coin slot, a ticket-in / ticket-out (TITO) system, a banknote acceptor, and / or any suitable device that enables the gaming machine 10 to accept media associated with monetary value and determine a credit balance for use in playing 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, banknotes, 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 player tracking accounts, virtual credit balances, reward points, gaming credits, bonus points, and / or any suitable virtual media that enables 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 into the gaming machine 10 by a player. The control unit 20 converts the value of the coins and / or tokens into a corresponding gaming credit amount, which the player uses to wager in games played on the gaming machine 10. The banknote acceptor may include an input / output device configured to accept banknotes, tickets, and / or cash cards into the banknote acceptor so that a gaming credit amount associated with the monetary value of banknotes, tickets, and / or cash cards can be deposited into the gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the banknote acceptor also includes a printer (not shown) configured to provide printed voucher tickets, which include information indicating the amount of credits and / or amounts paid to the player by the gaming machine 10 during a gaming session. The voucher tickets may be used in other gaming machines or exchanged for cash and / or other items as part of the casino's cashless system.

[0018]

[0030] Figure 2 shows a functional block diagram of the gaming machine 10 according to this embodiment. The gaming machine 10 provides a control unit 20. Inside the cabinet 12, a control board is incorporated as the control unit 20, which includes a central processing unit 38 (hereinafter abbreviated as CPU) including a processor, an interface unit (or interface section) 40, a memory device including memory 42, and storage 44. The control board is configured 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 CPU 38's memory 42 or storage 44, and provides the game to the player. The function of the CPU 38 is to execute the 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, which includes a chipset that provides communication functions for 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® interface, and a memory 42 and storage 44 that the CPU 38 can address via the interface unit 40. The memory 42 can be configured to include a volatile storage medium such as RAM, a non-volatile storage medium such as ROM, and a rewritable non-volatile storage medium such as EEPROM. The storage 44 provides the control unit 20 with the function of an external storage device and can use a reader such as a memory card or magneto-optical disk, which are removable storage media, and a hard disk can also be used.

[0020]

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

[0021]

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

[0022]

[0034] The following describes each block connected to the control unit 20. The banknote / ticket identification unit controller 46 operates the banknote / ticket identification device 28 to accept banknotes / tickets at the insertion slot and notifies the control unit 20 of identification information corresponding to the banknote type or credit payout process. The banknote / ticket identification unit controller 46 notifies the control unit 20 of this information, and the control unit 20 increases the amount of credits available in the game according to the notified information. The printer unit controller 48 corresponds to the printer device 30 and, under the control of the control unit 20 which receives operation of the payout button in group 34 of the setting buttons, prints and outputs information corresponding to the credit payout process from the gaming machine 10 onto a ticket.

[0023]

[0035] The player ranking (or tracking unit) unit 18 works in cooperation with the control unit 20 to send and receive player information and other data to and from the casino management system. The graphics controller 50 controls the display device 14 under the control of the control unit 20 to display a display image 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, and background game music (BGM).

[0024]

[0036] Furthermore, the interface unit 40 includes various communication interfaces for communicating with the outside of the gaming machine 10. For example, the interface unit 40 can communicate with external networks via Ethernet 58, 60, and serial interface 62. In this embodiment, examples of communication with known server-side gaming networks 58 (server-based gaming), G2S networks 60 (game-system), and slot information systems 62 (slot data systems) are shown.

[0025]

[0037] Figure 3 schematically shows 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 a control unit 20 that executes a predetermined program. In the illustrated embodiment, the display area 64 is displayed on the lower display 24. For example, during gameplay, the upper display 22 may be used to display game-related information such as game title information and / or graphics.

[0026]

[0038] In one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 20 executes a game execution program and provides a game 66 including a primary game 68 (see Figures 16, 18, and 25) and one or more bonus reel games 69 (see Figures 17 to 24, 26, and 27). The control unit 20 displays the game screen, including the primary game 68 and bonus feature events, within a display area 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the primary game 68 and bonus feature events are displayed on the lower display 24. The upper display 22 may be used to display animations and / or game identification information during gameplay and / or attract mode. Furthermore, the lower display 24 may display decorative areas, as well as areas that display credit amounts, bet amounts, and credit amounts earned by wins (number of wins), etc. In another embodiment, the primary game 68 may be displayed on the lower display 24, and the bonus feature events may be displayed on the upper display 22.

[0027]

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the primary game 68 includes a video slot game using a plurality of virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 (see Figures 3, 4, 16, and 18). The video slot game uses a grid 80 in the display area 64. The illustrated embodiment shows the display state of 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 multiple game symbols in a grid 80. The grid 80 includes multiple rows (r) and columns (c). The grid 80 is composed of multiple cells 82, which are the stopping positions of the symbols. One symbol stops and is displayed in each of the multiple cells 82 in the display area 64.

[0029]

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the grid 80 is displayed with 15 cells 82 arranged in a 3x5 grid (3-3-3-3-3), and the control unit 20 generates five virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78 for use in the primary game 68. In some embodiments, the grid may include other arrangements, such as 3x4 (3x4; 3-3-3-3), 4x4 (4x4; 4-4-4-4), 4x5 (4x5; 4-4-4-4-4), and / or 5x5 (5x5; 5-5-5-5-5) cell arrangements. Each cell 82 of the grid 80 displays game symbols 84 based on the symbol arrangement of the virtual reel set 86, which includes the virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78 (see also Figure 4), as shown in Figure 3. In other words, each cell 82 of the grid 80 corresponds to a virtual reel 70-78 in each column, and displays game symbols 84 positioned in a predetermined portion of each virtual reel 70-78. In the illustrated embodiment, each virtual reel 70-78 displays multiple symbols in the column corresponding to the virtual reel at the stopping position. For example, as shown in Figure 3, when stopped, each virtual reel 70-78 displays game symbols in the corresponding column. Furthermore, by moving (scrolling or spinning) each game symbol 84 column by column based on the symbol arrangement of the virtual reels 70-78, the game symbols 84 displayed in the cells 82 of the grid 80 change, and the game symbols 84 stop when the movement (scrolling or spinning) of each column is stopped. Here, the virtual reels 70-78 are data, and the control unit 20 uses a program stored in memory 42 or storage 44, and data that displays the symbol arrangement (i.e., the sequence 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 70-78.

[0030]

[0042] In some embodiments, the control unit 20 generates each virtual reel 70-78 using a reel strip data file 88 (see Figures 11A-11E) stored in memory 42 and / or storage 44. The reel strip data file 88 includes a reel designation 90 associated with each virtual reel 70-78 and logical cells 92 of consecutive symbol positions associated with each reel designation 90. The logical cell 92 of each symbol position includes an indicator for drawing a virtual reel having multiple game symbols. The reel strip data file 88 includes information related to multiple 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 reel strip data file 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 includes a number of symbol positions 104 where game symbols 84 selected from symbol image data files stored in memory 42 and / or storage 44 are placed. Reel strips 94-102 also include reel stop positions 106 associated with each symbol position 104. The symbol positions 104 and their corresponding game symbols 84 are arranged in the order defined by each reel strip 94, 96, 98, 100, 102. In addition, one or more reel strips 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 include a different number of symbol positions 112.

[0031]

[0043] In some embodiments, each reel strip 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 includes a plurality of fixed symbol positions 104 for displaying game symbols 84. Each fixed symbol position 104 includes an instruction for displaying a predetermined game symbol 84 selected from a set of game symbols 84 contained in a game symbol image data file. For example, for each play of the 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 in the fixed symbol positions 104 and includes a variety of game symbols 84. This symbol set may include primary game symbols 107, including card symbols that mimic playing cards as standard symbols ("9", "10", "J", "Q", "K", and "A") and picture symbols that show patterns ("PicA", "PicB", "PicC", and "PicD"). Furthermore, this symbol set includes wild symbols ("Wild") that are substituted as other symbols when a winning combination is determined, and special symbols ("Special") that can be used to determine whether a game feature is offered. Each of these symbols has a different rank relative to its value when it wins, and these ranks gradually increase in the order of "9", "10", "J", "Q", "K", "A", "PicE", "PicD", "PicC", "PicB", and "PicA". Symbol combinations that include symbols with a higher rank when it wins can yield a higher payout compared to combinations of symbols with a lower rank when it wins.

[0032]

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

[0033]

[0045] It should be noted that in one embodiment of the present invention, one or more dynamic virtual reel strips may be used. Using virtual reel strips, the symbols and / or symbol positions and / or length or size and / or any aspect of the virtual reel strip can be changed between one spin or play and the next spin or play. For example, a dynamic reel strip includes a plurality of symbol positions containing symbols from a symbol set, and a plurality 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 can be changed randomly and / or in a predetermined pattern between one spin and the next.

[0034]

[0046] Alternatively, the virtual reel strip associated with a column of cells may change dynamically between one spin or play and the next. This can occur randomly with each spin or play, and / or in a predetermined pattern. Note that in the illustrated embodiment, each column of grid 80 contains a corresponding reel. When the reels stop, the symbols of each reel are displayed in one of the cells in each column of grid 80.

[0035]

[0047] In some embodiments, the control unit 20 may be programmed to generate a number of virtual independent reels 109 (see Figures 17 to 24) for use in the bonus reel game 69, using a reel strip data file 88 (see Figures 11B to 11E) and symbol image data files stored in memory 42 and / or storage 44. The virtual independent reels 109 may be generated as single symbol reels, each displayed in a corresponding cell 82 and configured to display a single game symbol 84 when the corresponding independent single symbol reel 109 is in a stopping position. For example, in some embodiments, when the bonus reel game 69 is started, the control unit 20 generates an independent single symbol reel 109 for each cell 82 displayed in the grid 80. The control unit 20 generates each independent single symbol reel 109 using a single symbol reel strip data file 112 (see Figure 11B). For example, the single symbol reel strip data file 112 may contain one or more single symbol reel strips 114. Each single-symbol reel strip 114 may include modified game symbols 107, which include 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 internal symbol 116 ("inner-MAN").

[0036]

[0048] Generally, the control unit 20 starts an instance of the primary game 68 and randomly determines the stopping position of each virtual reel 70-78 using the reel stop position data file 108 (see Figure 12) stored in the 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 stopping positions to represent the result of the primary game. Thus, on the display or grid 80, the symbols contained in the virtual reels 70-78 are moved (scrolled or spun) continuously in the vertical direction of the display area 64, and one symbol in one cell 82, aligned in a symbol sequence based on the symbol arrangement, stops and is displayed.

[0037]

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

[0038]

[0050] The display area 64 is used when paylines are set and winnings are determined. Paylines are set to span from the leftmost column to the rightmost column and are lines that determine winnings by combining multiple cells 82. The number of active lines among the set paylines is selected by operating the line selection buttons in the group of setting buttons 34 of the player's control unit 32. The control unit 20 determines a win when a predetermined number of identical symbols appear on a set payline, and pays the player a payout according to the type and number of symbols, regarding the result of the game, which is a combination of symbols. The system for determining a win may determine a win when a predetermined number of identical symbols appear from the leftmost column on a set payline, when a predetermined number of identical symbols appear from the rightmost column on a set payline, or when a predetermined number of identical symbols appear in consecutive columns on a predetermined payline. Note that paylines other than (or added to) those shown in Figure 13 may be used. Generally, a payline begins in the first column and ends in the last column, containing one cell per column. However, one or more paylines may contain one or more cells within the same column, and may also contain vertical paylines.

[0039]

[0051] In some embodiments, if a trigger condition occurs during the primary game, the control unit 20 executes a bonus feature event algorithm to display a bonus feature event. For example, if 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] Referring to Figures 5 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, memory 42 stores a game application program 200 containing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor 38, cause the processor 38 to generate a game and display it on the display device 14 of the gaming machine 10. In one embodiment, the game application program 200 includes program code 202 and program object data 204 containing computer-executable instructions for implementing the game using the algorithms shown in Figures 14 and 15.

[0041]

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, memory 42 stores a game application program 200 and a system application program 206, which include computer-executable instructions. When these computer-executable instructions are executed by the processor 38, the processor 38 generates a game and displays it on the display device 14 of the gaming machine 10. When executed by the processor 38, the game application program 200 provides game-specific / front-end functions, and the system application program 206 provides general-purpose / back-end functions. In the exemplary embodiment, the game application program 200 and the system application program 206 are implemented on the same operating system. However, it should be noted that these programs may be implemented on different operating systems and / or by different processors. In one embodiment, the game application program 200 includes several 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 result generator 220, a prize evaluator 222, a game presenter 224, a game graphics presenter 226, a game sound presenter 228, a prize indicator 230, a rewards 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 signals from the bet button, currency unit button, or payline button, which are generated by the button when the player operates the button to select the bet amount, currency unit, or number of paylines. Upon receiving a signal, the bet / currency unit / payline button listener module 208 communicates the signal generation to the application manager 234 in order to change the bet, currency unit, or payline configuration of the game.

[0043]

[0055] The start button listener module 210 is a software module that receives a signal from the start button, which is generated when the player operates this button to start the game. Upon receiving the signal, the start button listener module 210 communicates the occurrence of the signal to the application manager 234 in order to start the game.

[0044]

[0056] Upon receiving a 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 for the random number generation calculation method. The random number generator 216 may also 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 implementation examples, the random number generator 216 may be implemented in a central server. The random number generator 216 can be implemented as an integrated circuit or wiring logic.

[0046]

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

[0047]

[0059] The game result generator 220 generates game results based on the selected reel layout, the stopping position of each reel, and the bonus feature.

[0048]

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

[0049]

[0061] Game presenter 224 provides a game presentation process that utilizes visual information and sound to ultimately form a predetermined game outcome.

[0050]

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

[0051]

[0063] The Game Sound Presenter 228 provides a sound presentation process by using a sound controller and speakers.

[0052]

[0064] The winning indicator 230 shows the winning combinations and payout conditions of the prize symbols formed in the game result.

[0053]

[0065] Rewards provider 232 will provide reward credits to the rewards meter based on the winning performance.

[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] The external communicator 236 exchanges commands and data with the system application program 206.

[0056]

[0068] The credit balance manager module 212 performs a process to decrement and increment the credit balance based on the total number of wins displayed on the wins meter.

[0057]

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the system application program 206 provides functions other than background processing and game-specific functions. The system application program 206 has several 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 communication manager 248, a banknote acceptor manager 250, a meter management module 252, and a cash-out manager 254.

[0058]

[0070] The system application program 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 functions other than background processes and game-specific functions performed by the system application program 206.

[0060]

[0072] Security Manager 240 is a software module for managing game verification, door security, and monitoring security sensors.

[0061]

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

[0062]

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

[0063]

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

[0064]

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

[0065]

[0077] Accounting log 258 is accumulated data that includes error events, banknote logs, cash-out logs, ticket logs, etc. Accounting log 258 is stored in non-volatile memory.

[0066]

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

[0067]

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

[0068]

[0080] The meter management module 252 is a software module for adjusting the values ​​of the meter 260 in response to communication with the game application program 200 via the communication manager 248, the banknote acceptor manager 250, or the cash-out manager 254. The meter 260 includes a credit meter for showing the current credit balance of the gaming machine, and a winnings meter for showing the total number of winnings for the current game session. The meter further includes background meters for coin insertion, coin return, total drop, jackpot paid by the server, and / or banknote insertion. These meters may be implemented as data on non-volatile memory or as hardware meters.

[0069]

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

[0070]

[0082] Referring to Figures 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 that communicates with and connects to one or more client computing devices 302 via a communication network 306. The communication network 306 can be any suitable connection, including but not limited to the Internet, an intranet, a LAN, a virtual private network (VPN), or a cellular network. The communication network 306 may utilize any suitable technology or combination of technologies, including but not limited to wired and wireless connections, always-on connections, periodic connections, and connections made as needed.

[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 the information received from the server system 300 to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the client computing device 302 includes a processor connected 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 the user, and a display device configured to display a graphical user interface. The input device and the display device allow the user to exchange information 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, or a handheld mobile device including a mobile phone. In one embodiment, the processor of the client computing device 302 can 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. The processor executes the web browser program to display a web page containing information received from the server system 300 on the display device, enabling the user to interact with and operate the server system 300.

[0073]

[0085] In one embodiment, the client computing device 302 includes a mobile computing device 308 (see Figure 10), such as 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 used in operating the mobile computing device 308. The mobile computing device 308 may include a display device 14 including a touchscreen, one or more video image cameras, one or more speakers, a microphone, at least one input button, and one or more sensors connected to the input button, including but not limited to a touch ID fingerprint sensor, a barometer, a 3-axis accelerometer, an accelerometer, a proximity sensor, and an ambient light sensor. 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® microlocation device.

[0074]

[0086] The mobile computing device 308 may be programmed to store and run mobile computer program applications, which display a graphical user interface on a touchscreen display device 14 including a display area 64, allowing the user to access the server system 300 using the display area 64, retrieve and store information within the server system 300, and interact with and manipulate information with the server system 300. In addition, in one embodiment, the server system 300 may install one or more mobile computer application programs in the memory device of the mobile computing device 308. When started by the processor of the mobile computing device 308, the mobile computer application programs cause the processor of the mobile computing device 308 to execute some or all of the functions of the gaming machine 10.

[0075]

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the server system 300 includes one or more remote gaming servers 310, one or more backend 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 can be accessed by a user via one or more client computing devices 302. In response to a request received from a user via the client computing device 302, the website hosting servers 314 and 316 execute a website application program that retrieves application code from the backend server 312 and executes this application code to render one or more websites on the display device of the client computing device 302, allowing the user to interact with the website and information. The website hosting servers 314 and 316 are configured to generate and display web pages that display games. For example, a real money gaming website hosting server 314 is configured to host a website where real money is wagered, and the real money website allows players to convert funds into gaming credits that can be used to wager items in games. A social gaming website hosting server 316 is configured to host a social media and / or social gaming website, and the social media and / or social gaming website allows players to accept gaming credits for activities such as purchasing goods and / or services via an e-commerce website, 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 the web pages and / or website functions displayed by the website hosting servers 314 and 316. For example, in one embodiment, the backend server 312 may include a player account system server that generates a player account containing data associated with the player, including but not limited to player identification information, player financial account information, player gaming credit account information, and / or any appropriate player information that can be used to set up a credit meter so that the player can put what they put up for bet into the game.

[0077]

[0089] Each remote gaming server 310 includes one or more copies of a game application program 200 stored in the memory device of the remote gaming server 310. The processor of the remote gaming server 310 is programmed to retrieve the game application program 200 and send it to one or more backend servers 312 in order to display the game to the user via a web page displayed by a web browser program.

[0078]

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

[0079]

[0091] In one embodiment, when the remote gaming server 310 receives a request from website hosting servers 314 and 316 via the backend server 312, it may execute the game application program 200 to run the game, perform a render-to-string process to generate renderable code representing the game, such as HTML code, and send this renderable code to the backend server 312. The backend server 312 may then send the renderable code to the corresponding website hosting servers 314 and 316 to display the game on a website. When a player plays the game, the remote gaming server 310 may execute the game application program 200 for each instance of the game and send the renderable code to the backend server 312.

[0080]

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

[0081]

[0093] In yet another embodiment, the backend server 312 can 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 can access the game application program 200, perform a render-to-string operation to generate a rendered code representing the game, and send this rendered code to the mobile computing device 308. In one embodiment, the backend server 312 can continuously execute the game application program 200 to generate each instance of the game using the backend server 312's random number generator based on input received from the mobile computing device 308, generate a rendered code for each instance of the game, and send it to the mobile computing device 308. In another embodiment, the backend server 312 can perform a partial-render operation to generate a partially rendered code of the game using the game application program 200, and send this partially rendered code and object data of the game assets to the mobile computing device 308. The partially rendered code includes instructions for generating code to be rendered using the mobile computing device's game assets and a random number generator, in order to generate a game using a mobile computer application program and display it 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 highly 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. One 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 and access the game content. A copy of the game application program 200, including the game code and game object assets, is stored in the remote gaming server 310 for each backend server 312 that distributes the game and is connected to the remote gaming server 310. For example, if one remote gaming server 310 is connected to two backend servers 312, and the backend servers 312 are connected to three website hosting servers 314, 316 that distribute the game, then the remote gaming server 310 stores two copies of the game application program 200, including the game code and game object assets (e.g., one copy for each backend server 312).

[0084]

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

[0085]

[0097] Figures 14 and 15 are flowcharts of methods 400 and 500, which describe algorithms performed by the processor 38 when running the game application program 200, which is included in the game application program 200 and operates the gaming machine 10 and / or iGaming server system 304, generating computer-generated animation sequences of images and rendering them on a graphic user interface screen to display the game to the player. These methods comprise multiple steps. Each step of a method may be performed independently of or in combination with the steps of other methods. Parts of a method may be performed by any of the components of the gaming machine 10 and / or iGaming server system 304, or any combination thereof.

[0086]

[0098] For example, the game application program 200 may include computer executable instructions for providing the Lucky Kicker bonus feature event included in the Charms Full Link Leprechaun's Blessing slot game provided 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 Figures 3, 6, and 18) and a bonus reel game 69 (see Figures 17 to 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 has a reel-type game that includes a plurality of virtual reels that spin and stop to display the results 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 preferred casino-type betting game.

[0088]

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

[0089]

[0101] In step 402 of the method, the processor 38 of the control unit 20 renders a primary game image 118 (see Figures 3, 16, and 18) containing multiple virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78 to the display device 14, which is displayed within the primary game reel window 120. The primary game reel window 120 displays a grid 80 containing multiple cells 82 arranged in multiple rows (r) and columns (c). Each primary game reel 70-78 is displayed in the corresponding column. As shown in Figures 3, 16, and 18, the primary game reel window 120 may include a 3x5 cell configuration (3-3-3-3-3) containing 15 cells 82.

[0090]

[0102] In method step 404, the processor 38 starts an instance of the computer-animated primary reel game 68 by animating multiple virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78, simulating spinning the multiple virtual reels through the primary game reel window 120, and then sequentially stopping the multiple virtual reels 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78 to display the game result (see Figure 18). In the game result shown in Figure 18, as described in Figure 26, six trigger symbols (six coin images, including one blue coin image) trigger a bonus game with a lucky kicker bonus feature. In other embodiments, for example, as shown in the same drawings, a double game feature may be given if the trigger game result contains a red coin, and an extra spin feature may be given if the trigger game result contains a green coin. Here, the double game feature means providing the bonus game on two screens by adding one game screen, and the extra spin feature means increasing the maximum remaining spins of the bonus game by one. The Double Game feature provides multiple display areas by adding game screens, allowing bonus games to be offered in each display area. Furthermore, the Double Game feature may add multiple game screens. In bonus games where the Extra Spin feature is applied, the game ends when the pre-set number of remaining spins reaches zero. The number of remaining spins decreases each time a bonus game is offered. If the displayed symbols include special symbols, the number of remaining spins is reset to the initial number. If a green coin is included in the trigger game result, the number of times the remaining spins are reset to the initial number can be increased. Furthermore, in one embodiment, if coins of different colors are included in the trigger of the game result, the game features associated with each coin can be applied simultaneously.In other words, the slot machine provides a bonus game when the symbols displayed as a game result satisfy predetermined trigger conditions, applies special rules to the bonus game when the symbols included in the game result satisfying the trigger conditions satisfy predetermined conditions, and does not apply special rules to the bonus game when the symbols included in the game result satisfying the trigger conditions do not satisfy predetermined conditions. For example, the processor 38 can receive signals from the display device 14 and / or the control unit 32 indicating a player's request to start an instance of game 66 or play. In one embodiment, the player can send a request to start an instance of game 66 or play by touching a corresponding button icon displayed on the touchscreen of the display device 14 or by pressing the corresponding "spin" button on the control unit 32. Upon receiving signals from the display device 14 and / or the control unit 32, the processor 38 starts an instance of game 66 by generating virtual reels 70-78 to be used in the primary game 68, animating the virtual reels 70-78, and simulating spinning the virtual reels 70-78 through the grid 80.

[0091]

[0103] In steps 406-416 of the method, the processor 38 randomly determines the result of an instance of the primary game 68, spins the virtual reels 70-78, and stops the virtual reels 70-78 sequentially to display the randomly generated result, including the game symbols displayed in each cell 82 of the grid 80. For example, in one embodiment, the processor 38 starts spinning each virtual reel 70-78, obtains a random number from a random number generator, and determines the stop position of each virtual reel 70-78 based on the random number and the reel stop position data file 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the reel stop position data file 108 includes a range of random numbers associated with each symbol position in the sequence of symbol positions associated with the virtual reels. In one embodiment, the processor may obtain a random number for each virtual reel 70-78 (i.e., five random numbers). Next, the processor 38 sets a reel stop counter "i" and sets the reel stop counter (i) to a value equal to 1. Next, the processor 38 identifies the i-th virtual reel strip associated with the stop counter (i), stops the identified virtual reel strip, and displays the corresponding symbol in the corresponding cell 82 associated with the identified virtual reel strip. Next, the processor 38 increments the reel stop counter (i) by 1 (i.e., i = i + 1), identifies the 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 to 5. In one embodiment, the player may stop the reels by pressing a spin button while they are spinning, thereby accelerating the gameplay.

[0092]

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

[0093]

[0105] In step 422 of the method, once the primary game 68 and / or bonus reel game 69 are completed, the processor 38 determines and provides rewards related to the outcome of the primary game 68 and / or bonus feature event. For example, the processor 38 determines whether the combination of symbols displayed in the outcome of the instance of the primary game 68 and / or bonus reel game 69 is a winning combination and provides the reward by increasing the balance of the credit meter based on the reward amount.

[0094]

[0106] In step 502 of the method, the processor 38 is programmed to detect trigger conditions (see Figures 16 and 18) that include the appearance of multiple special symbols 122 in the result of a primary game 68 where the primary reels are in a stopped position. In the illustrated embodiment, the special symbols 122 are displayed as coin images 124 (see Figure 16). In other embodiments, any suitable special symbol image can be used. In one embodiment, the special symbols 122 may include different types of special symbols, which may be displayed as coin images given colors and / or patterns indicating the type of special symbol. Figures 25-27 are screenshots showing the HTML code that makes up the help screen of the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game. As shown in these HTML codes, the special symbols of the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game include three types of special symbols displayed as blue, green, or red coin images, in addition to the standard special symbols displayed as gold coin images. As shown in the HTML code in Figure 26, these three types of special symbols in the trigger conditions trigger different game features.

[0095]

[0107] Figures 17–24 are screenshots showing some of the screen transitions for the bonus game of the Charms Full Link® Leprechaun's Blessing® slot game. In the illustrated embodiments, when a trigger condition is detected, including the appearance of multiple special symbols 122 in the game outcome, the processor 38 animates the bonus game transition screen 126 on the display device 14, and then renders the bonus game screen 128 on the display device 14, which has a reel display area 130 in which multiple virtual independent reels 132 are displayed. The multiple virtual independent reels are displayed in a bonus game reel window 134 having a grid 80 containing multiple cells 82 arranged in multiple rows (r) and columns (c), with each virtual independent reel 132 displayed in the corresponding cell 82. The processor 38 also renders a bonus credit meter 136 in the reel display area 130 in addition to displaying the bonus game credit amount. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 17, the bonus credit meter 136 is initially displayed without displaying the bonus game credit amount. In another embodiment, the bonus credit meter 136 may display an initial bonus game credit amount determined based on the trigger condition.

[0096]

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the reel display area 130 includes a substantially rectangular shape extending between the upper end 140 and the lower end 142, and between the outer left end 144 and the outer right end 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 multiple rows (r) and an initial window width 152 defined along multiple columns (c).

[0097]

[0109] For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the processor 38 displays the primary game screen 118 with 15 cells 82 arranged in a 3x5 (3-3-3-3-3) configuration, including a primary game reel window 120 displaying five virtual reels 70-78, and then transforms the primary game screen 118 into a bonus game screen 128, which displays 15 cells 82 arranged in a 3x5 (3-3-3-3-3) configuration, and displays 15 virtual independent reels 132. In the initial reel window state 148, the bonus game reel window 134 includes the same window height 150 and window width 152 as the primary game reel window 120. The processor 38 can also use a single symbol reel strip data file 112 (see Figure 11B) to generate each virtual independent reel 132 as an independent single symbol reel 109. The processor 38 also displays special symbols 122 that are included in the trigger conditions that appear in the result of the primary game 68 within the corresponding cell 82 of the displayed bonus game reel window 134.

[0098]

[0110] In step 504 of the method, the processor 38 starts an instance of the computer-generated bonus reel game 69 and animates multiple bonus symbols 154 within the corresponding cells 82 of the bonus game reel window 134, which is displayed in the initial reel window state 148, replacing each special symbol 122. For example, as shown in Figure 19, the processor 38 converts each special symbol 122, which is displayed as a coin image 124, into a bonus symbol 154. The bonus symbols 154 may be displayed as a credit symbol image 156 or a progressive prize symbol image 158 (see Figures 20A, 20B, and 24). The credit symbol image 156 may include a coin image with a credit amount overlaid, and the progressive prize symbol image 158 may include a coin image with a progressive prize indicator (e.g., "MegaBonus", "MajorBonus", "MinorBonus", "MiniBonus") overlaid.

[0099]

[0111] In some embodiments, the processor 38 may access an internal reel strip data file 160 (see Figure 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, each containing multiple credit symbols 156 and progressive prize symbols 158 associated with multiple reel stop positions 106.

[0100]

[0112] In step 506 of the method, 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 reduce its width from an initial window width 152 to a final window width 166 which is smaller than the initial window width 152, and to define the bonus reel area 168 between the changed bonus game reel window 134 and the 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 Figures 20A to 21, the processor 38 can change the bonus game reel window 134 from the initial reel window state 148 to the modified reel window state 164 by rendering the bonus game reel window 134 in an initial reel window state 148 that displays each column having an initial column width 170, and then animating each column to decrease the corresponding column width from the initial column width 170 to a final column width 172 that is smaller than the initial column width 170. In addition, the processor 38 can also animate the bonus symbols 154 to move closer to each other as the bonus game reel window 134 is animated to the modified reel window state 164. The processor 38 can also display each bonus symbol 154 with a constant width 174 as the bonus game reel window 134 changes from the initial reel window state 148 to the modified reel window state 164, and animate the bonus symbols 154 to move closer to each other without changing the size and / or shape of the bonus symbols 154.

[0102]

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

[0103]

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the bonus independent reel window 176 is displayed with a reel height of 180, which is smaller than the window height 150 of the bonus game reel window 134, and a reel width of 182, which 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 independent reel 178 may be displayed as a rotating bonus coin image 184, or it may be generated as a single symbol reel that displays a single game symbol in the bonus independent reel window 176 when the bonus independent reel 178 is in a stopping position.

[0104]

[0116] For example, the processor 38 can access a bonus independent reel strip data file 186 (see Figure 11C) for use when selecting bonus symbols 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 an image symbol (e.g., "Pic-DarkCoin") and one or more variable inner symbols ("inner-COIN") associated with multiple reel stop positions 106. If a variable inner symbol is selected, the processor 38 can access a bonus variable reel strip data file 190 (see Figure 11E) that includes multiple bonus credit symbols 156 associated with multiple reel stop positions 106.

[0105]

[0117] In step 508 of the method, the processor 38 is programmed to start a bonus reel game 69 which includes a predetermined number of spins on the virtual independent reel 132. For example, as shown in Figures 22 to 24, the bonus reel game 69 first includes three free spins on the virtual independent reel 132 and animates the spin counter 192 (see Figure 17) so that it appears above the bonus game reel window 134. Next, the processor 38 executes an instance of the bonus reel game 69 by spinning and stopping the virtual independent reel 132 and displays the result 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 holding the multiple bonus symbols 154 displayed in the transformed 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 result of the bonus game. For example, as shown in Figure 23, the processor 38 may display the bonus independent reel 178 as a rotating bonus coin image 184, animate the bonus coin image 184 to rotate around the rotation axis 194, and then stop it to display the bonus game result.

[0106]

[0118] In method step 510, when the virtual independent reels 132 and the bonus independent reels 178 are stopped, the processor 38 determines whether one or more 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 it is detected that a special symbol 122 is displayed in the bonus game reel window 134 with the reels stopped, the processor 38 performs method step 512, sequentially animating the coin images and moving them from each corresponding bonus symbol 154 displayed in the bonus game reel window 134 to the bonus credit meter 136, and modifying the bonus credit meter 136 by increasing the credit amount by the amount of credit associated with and / or displayed for each bonus symbol 154.

[0107]

[0119] After correcting the bonus credit meter 136, the processor 38 performs method step 514, resetting the remaining free spins by animating the spin counter 192 to reset to a predetermined number of spins. Next, the processor 38 performs method step 516, converting each displayed special symbol 122 into a bonus symbol 154. For example, the processor 38 may access the internal reel strip data file 160 (see Figure 11D) for use in selecting the bonus symbol 154 for each special symbol 122, and convert each special symbol 122 into a bonus symbol 154 that will be displayed as a credit symbol image 156 or a progressive prize symbol image 158. Next, the processor 38 returns to method step 508, animating the virtual independent reels 132 and bonus independent reels 178, displaying an animation of them spinning and stopping sequentially with the bonus symbols 154 held.

[0108]

[0120] If the processor 38 detects that no special symbols 122 are displayed in the bonus game reel window 134 while the reels are stopped, the processor 38 executes method step 518 to determine if bonus symbols 154 are displayed on the bonus independent reel 178. If it is detected that bonus symbols 154 are displayed on the bonus independent reel 178, the processor 38 executes method steps 512-516 to sequentially animate the coin images, moving each corresponding bonus symbol 154 displayed in the bonus game reel window 134 and the bonus independent reel 178 to the bonus credit meter 136, and modifies the bonus credit meter 136 by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the amount of credit associated with and / or displayed for each bonus symbol 154. For example, as shown in Figure 23, the processor 38 may animate the bonus independent reel 178 to display a bonus coin image 184, and rotate and stop the bonus coin image 184 to display the credit amount 156. Next, the processor 38 modifies the bonus credit meter 136 by increasing the bonus game credit amount using the credit amount displayed on the bonus coin image 184 and the credit amount displayed on each bonus symbol 154 displayed in the bonus game reel window 134.

[0109]

[0121] If the processor 38 detects that no bonus symbols 154 are displayed on the bonus independent reel 178, the processor 38 executes method step 520, which animates the spin counter 192 to decrease by one free spin. Next, the processor 38 executes method step 522 to determine the number of remaining free spins, for example, whether the spin counter is equal to 0 remaining spins. If there are free spins remaining, the processor 38 executes method step 508 to start another instance of the bonus reel game 69. If there are no free spins remaining, the processor 38 terminates the bonus reel game 69, animates a transition screen to display the primary game screen 118 on the display device, and returns to method step 402.

[0110]

[0122] Exemplary embodiments of gaming machines, gaming systems, and methods for providing benefits to players have been described in detail above. Gaming machines, systems, and methods are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein; rather, components of gaming machines and / or systems, and / or steps of methods, may be used separately and independently of other components and / or steps described herein. For example, a gaming machine may be used in combination with other gaming systems and methods, and is not limited to implementations using only the gaming machines described herein. Rather, the exemplary embodiments may be implemented and utilized in connection with the application of many other gaming systems.

[0111]

[0123] A controller, computing device, or computer as described herein includes at least one or more processors or processing units and system memory. A controller also typically includes at least some form of computer-readable medium. For example, computer-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, computer storage medium and communication medium. Computer storage medium may include volatile and non-volatile removable and non-removable media implemented in any way or technique that enables the storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication medium typically includes any information distribution medium that incorporates computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data into a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism. A person skilled in the art should be familiar with modulated data signals whose properties one or more of their characteristics have been set or modified to encode information within the signal. Any combination of the above also falls within the scope of computer-readable medium.

[0112]

[0124] The order in which the actions in the embodiments of the invention illustrated and described herein are performed or executed is not essential unless otherwise specified. That is, the actions described herein may be performed in any order unless otherwise specified, and embodiments of the invention may include more or fewer actions than those disclosed herein. For example, performing or executing certain actions before, simultaneously with, or after other actions is within the scope of embodiments of the invention.

[0113]

[0125] In some embodiments, the processors described herein include any programmable system, which includes a system and a microcontroller, a reduced instruction set circuit (RISC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic circuit (PLC), and any other circuit or processor capable of performing the functions described herein. The examples above are illustrative and are therefore not intended to limit in any way the definition and / or meaning of the term processor.

[0114]

[0126] This specification discloses the invention using examples including best modes, and enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including creating 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 conceivable by those skilled in the art. Other aspects and features of the invention can be obtained by examining the drawings, disclosures, and appended claims. The invention may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described in the appended claims. It should also be noted that the steps and / or functions described in the appended claims are not limited to any particular sequence of operation, regardless of the order in which those steps and / or features are described therein.

[0115]

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

[0116]

[0128] This disclosure also includes the following clauses. [Clause 1] Cabinet and, A display device mounted on the aforementioned cabinet, The system comprises a control unit which is operably connected to the display device and includes a processor programmed to execute an algorithm for rendering a computer-generated animation sequence onto the display device, the algorithm being: The steps include rendering a bonus game screen on the display device, which includes a reel display area having multiple virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window containing multiple cells arranged in multiple rows and columns, wherein the reel window is displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along the multiple rows and an initial window width defined along the multiple columns, and each virtual independent reel is displayed in its corresponding cell, and Multiple bonus symbols are animated and made to appear in the corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state. By animating the reel window to reduce its width from the initial window width to a final window width smaller than the initial window width, the reel window is transformed from the initial reel window state to the modified reel window state, and a bonus reel area is defined between the transformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area. The bonus independent reel window, which displays the bonus independent reels, is animated to appear within the bonus reel area formed between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, and A gaming machine comprising the steps of starting an instance of a computer-animated bonus reel game by animating the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels, spinning the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels with the plurality of bonus symbols held, and stopping the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels to display the bonus game result. [Clause 2] The aforementioned processor, The steps include displaying the bonus-only reel as a bonus coin image, and A gaming machine according to Clause 1, programmed to perform the algorithm which includes the steps of animating a bonus coin image, rotating it around a pivot axis, stopping it, and displaying the result of the bonus game. [Clause 3] The aforementioned processor, The steps include rendering a bonus credit meter that displays the bonus game credit amount above the reel display area, The steps include: animating the bonus coin image by rotating and stopping it to display the credit amount, and, A gaming machine according to Clause 2, programmed to perform the algorithm which includes the step of modifying the bonus credit meter by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the amount of credit displayed in the bonus coin image and the amount of credit displayed in each bonus symbol. [Clause 4] The gaming machine according to Clause 1, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of animating a bonus independent reel window and sliding the reel window from the 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. [Clause 5] The aforementioned processor, The steps include rendering the reel window to an initial reel window state that displays each column having an initial column width, A gaming machine according to Clause 1, programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of transforming the reel window from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating each column and reducing the corresponding column width from an initial column width to a final column width smaller than the initial column width. [Clause 6] The gaming machine according to Clause 5, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of animating the bonus symbols and moving the reel windows toward each other as they are animated toward a modified reel window state. [Clause 7] The gaming machine according to Clause 6, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm which includes 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. [Clause 8] The gaming machine according to Clause 7, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of displaying at least one bonus symbol, which includes a coin image with a credit amount overlaid on it. [Clause 9] The aforementioned processor, The steps include: animating the virtual independent reels and bonus independent reels to spin and stop while holding the bonus symbols in a predetermined position; and A gaming machine according to Clause 1, programmed to execute the algorithm, which includes the step of awarding additional free spins when it detects another bonus symbol appearing on the virtual independent reel or the bonus independent reel. [Clause 10] A method for operating a gaming machine comprising a cabinet, a display device mounted on the cabinet, and a control unit including a processor operably connected to the display device, wherein the processor executes an algorithm for rendering a computer-generated animation sequence onto the display device, the algorithm being: The steps include rendering a bonus game screen on the display device, which includes a reel display area having multiple virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window containing multiple cells arranged in multiple rows and columns, wherein the reel window is displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along the multiple rows and an initial window width defined along the multiple columns, and each virtual independent reel is displayed in its corresponding cell, and Multiple bonus symbols are animated and made to appear in the corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state. By animating the reel window to reduce its width from the initial window width to a final window width smaller than the initial window width, the reel window is transformed from the initial reel window state to the modified reel window state, and a bonus reel area is defined between the transformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area. The bonus independent reel window, which displays the bonus independent reels, is animated to appear within the bonus reel area formed between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, and A method for operating a gaming machine, comprising the steps of: animating the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels to spin the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels with the plurality of bonus symbols held, and stopping the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels to display the bonus game result, thereby initiating an instance of a computer-animated bonus reel game. [Clause 11] The steps include displaying the bonus-only reel as a bonus coin image, and The method of clause 10, comprising a processor programmed to perform the algorithm which includes the steps of animating a bonus coin image, rotating it around a pivot axis, stopping it, and displaying the result of the bonus game. [Article 12] The steps include rendering a bonus credit meter that displays the bonus game credit amount above the reel display area, The steps include: animating the bonus coin image by rotating and stopping it to display the credit amount, and, The method according to Clause 11, comprising a processor programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of modifying the bonus credit meter by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the amount of credit displayed in the bonus coin image and the amount of credit displayed in each bonus symbol. [Clause 13] The method of clause 10, comprising a processor programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of animating a bonus independent reel window and sliding the reel window from the 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. [Clause 14] The steps include rendering the reel window to an initial reel window state that displays each column having an initial column width, The method of clause 10, comprising a processor programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the step of transforming the reel window from an initial reel window state to a modified reel window state by animating each column and reducing the corresponding column width from an initial column width to a final column width smaller than the initial column width. [Article 15] The method of Clause 14, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm which includes the steps of animating the bonus symbols and moving the reel windows toward each other as they are animated toward a modified reel window state. [Clause 16] The method of Clause 15, wherein the processor is programmed to execute the algorithm which includes 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] The method of Clause 16, wherein the processor is programmed to perform the algorithm which includes the step of displaying at least one bonus symbol, which includes a coin image with a credit amount overlaid on it. [Clause 18] A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable instructions embodied for operating a gaming machine including a cabinet, a display device mounted on the cabinet, and a control unit including a processor operably connected to the display device, wherein, when executed by the processor, the computer-executable instructions cause the processor to execute an algorithm for rendering an animation sequence of computer-generated images onto the display device, and the algorithm is The steps include rendering a bonus game screen on the display device, which includes a reel display area having multiple virtual independent reels displayed within a reel window containing multiple cells arranged in multiple rows and columns, wherein the reel window is displayed in an initial reel window state having a window height defined along the multiple rows and an initial window width defined along the multiple columns, and each virtual independent reel is displayed in its corresponding cell, and Multiple bonus symbols are animated and made to appear in the corresponding cells of the reel window displayed in the initial reel window state. By animating the reel window to reduce its width from the initial window width to a final window width smaller than the initial window width, the reel window is transformed from the initial reel window state to the modified reel window state, and a bonus reel area is defined between the transformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area. The bonus independent reel window, which displays the bonus independent reels, is animated to appear within the bonus reel area formed between the deformed reel window and the outer edge of the reel display area, and A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium comprising the steps of starting an instance of a computer-animated bonus reel game by animating the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels, spinning the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels with the plurality of bonus symbols held, and stopping the virtual independent reels and the bonus independent reels to display the bonus game result. [Article 19] The aforementioned computer executable instruction is sent to the processor, The steps include displaying the bonus-only reel as a bonus coin image, and A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium according to Clause 18, which causes the algorithm to be executed, the steps of animating a bonus coin image, rotating it around a pivot axis, stopping it, and displaying the result of the bonus game. [Clause 20] The aforementioned computer executable instruction is sent to the processor, The steps include rendering a bonus credit meter that displays the bonus game credit amount above the reel display area, The steps include: animating the bonus coin image by rotating and stopping it to display the credit amount, and, A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium according to clause 19, which causes the algorithm to be executed, the step of modifying the bonus credit meter by increasing the bonus game credit amount by the amount of credit displayed in the bonus coin image and the amount of credit displayed in each bonus symbol. [Article 21] The aforementioned computer executable instruction is sent to the processor, A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium according to Clause 18, which causes the algorithm described above to be executed, the step of animating a bonus independent reel window and sliding the reel window from the 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. A control unit that receives input from the player, A display unit that displays the game screen, It has an operation unit and a control unit connected to the display unit, The control unit responds to the player's operation of the control unit. In the matrix-shaped display area provided on the display unit, symbols randomly selected from symbols including multiple types of trigger symbols are displayed as game results, and the trigger symbols include a first trigger symbol. When a bonus game is awarded if the trigger condition is met by the fact that the symbols displayed as the game result include a predetermined number or more of the trigger symbols, If the symbols included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfy a predetermined condition, a special rule corresponding to the type of trigger symbol that satisfies the trigger condition is applied to the bonus game. If the symbols included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition do not satisfy the predetermined conditions, the special rule shall not be applied to the bonus game. As a bonus game, randomly determined symbols are displayed in a matrix-like display area on the display unit, and if the displayed symbol is a specific symbol, it is held and the next game is played, and this process is repeated until the termination conditions of the bonus game are met. A gaming machine that applies a special rule to add a position to display the first trigger symbol outside the display area if the trigger condition includes the first trigger symbol.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein in the bonus game to which a special rule is applied to add positions for displaying the symbol, the control unit does not hold the specific symbol at the added symbol display position.

3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the control unit, in applying a special rule to add a position for displaying the symbol outside the display area, animates the steps of shrinking the display area displayed on the display unit and adding a position for displaying the symbol adjacent to the reduced display area.

4. The aforementioned trigger symbol includes a second trigger symbol, The gaming machine according to claim 1, 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.

5. The aforementioned trigger symbol includes a third trigger symbol, The condition for ending the bonus game is that the remaining number of games, which is initially set to a predetermined number, becomes zero. The control unit, Each time the aforementioned bonus game is provided, the remaining number of games is decremented, and if the displayed symbol is a special symbol, the remaining number of games is reset to the initially set number. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein if the trigger condition includes the third trigger symbol, the number of times the remaining number of games is initialized is increased.

6. A gaming method that provides a game using a gaming machine having an operation unit that accepts player input and a display unit that displays the game screen, In response to the player operating the control unit, In the matrix-shaped display area provided on the display unit, symbols randomly selected from symbols including multiple types of trigger symbols are displayed as game results, and the trigger symbols include a first trigger symbol. When a bonus game is awarded if the trigger condition is met by the fact that the symbols displayed as the game result include a predetermined number or more of the trigger symbols, If the symbols included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfy a predetermined condition, a special rule corresponding to the type of trigger symbol that satisfies the trigger condition is applied to the bonus game. If the symbols included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition do not satisfy the predetermined conditions, the special rule shall not be applied to the bonus game. As a bonus game, randomly determined symbols are displayed in a matrix-like display area on the display unit, and if the displayed symbol is a specific symbol, it is held and the next game is played, and this process is repeated until the termination conditions of the bonus game are met. A gaming method that applies a special rule to add a position for displaying the first trigger symbol outside the display area if the trigger condition includes the first trigger symbol.

7. A program for operating a gaming machine having an operation unit that accepts player inputs, a display unit that displays a game screen, and a control unit connected to the operation unit and the display unit, wherein the control unit is... In response to the player operating the control unit, In the matrix-shaped display area provided on the display unit, symbols randomly selected from symbols including multiple types of trigger symbols are displayed as game results, and the trigger symbols include a first trigger symbol. When a bonus game is awarded if the trigger condition is met by the fact that the symbols displayed as the game result include a predetermined number or more of the trigger symbols, If the symbols included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition satisfy a predetermined condition, a special rule corresponding to the type of trigger symbol that satisfies the trigger condition is applied to the bonus game. If the symbols included in the game result that satisfies the trigger condition do not satisfy the predetermined conditions, the special rule shall not be applied to the bonus game. As a bonus game, randomly determined symbols are displayed in a matrix-like display area on the display unit, and if the displayed symbol is a specific symbol, it is held and the next game is played, and this process is repeated until the termination conditions of the bonus game are met. A program that, if the trigger condition includes the first trigger symbol, operates to apply a special rule to add a position to display the symbol outside the display area.

Images