Dynamic Reel Array Configuration for Electronic Gaming Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic gaming machines lack variation in gameplay, leading to decreased player interest as the same bonus prizes and game structures are repeated, making it difficult to retain players and differentiate machines.
Innovation Solution
An electronic gaming machine with a dynamic display system where game symbols are randomly determined for each symbol position, triggering the display of additional positions and varying the array size, creating a more engaging and unpredictable gameplay experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the same set of reels and rules are used for both main game and feature game, then the game structure is simple to implement, but player interest decreases due to lack of variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reel array configuration variable rather than fixed. The system dynamically adjusts the number of reels and symbol positions based on game state, transitioning between different array configurations (e.g., 5×3, 6×3, 7×3) to create gameplay variation while maintaining a unified game structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters of the game structure, specifically the number of reels and symbol positions per reel. By varying these parameters between main game and feature game modes, the system creates distinct gameplay experiences without requiring completely separate game implementations.
2Device complexity
If bonus prizes are kept the same across different games offered on the machine, then the bonus system is simple to manage, but differentiation between games is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by associating specific bonus prizes with specific reel array configurations rather than using uniform bonuses across all games. Different reel configurations (e.g., 5-reel vs. 7-reel arrays) are linked to different bonus structures, creating game differentiation while keeping the bonus management system integrated and manageable.
3Ease of operation
If the reel array configuration is fixed, then the game implementation is straightforward, but player engagement decreases due to predictability
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a fixed reel array configuration to a dynamic one where the number of reels and symbol positions changes based on game mode. This dynamic reconfiguration introduces unpredictability and excitement, enhancing player engagement while maintaining straightforward implementation through automated control.
4Device complexity
If feature games are limited to a single set of rules, then the game logic is simple to program, but player retention becomes difficult due to repetition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single game logic system universal by enabling it to function in multiple modes (main game and various feature games) through dynamic reel configuration changes. The same core game logic handles different gameplay scenarios by adapting the reel array structure, eliminating the need for separate rule sets while providing game variation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an electronic gaming machine comprising a display for displaying a game. The game comprises game symbols and an array of first symbol positions in which the game symbols are able to be displayed and predetermined winning combinations of randomly selected game symbols award prizes to a player. An electronic game controller controls the display of the game symbols on the display and randomly determines whether to display one of the game symbols in each first symbol position. In response to each first symbol position in the array displaying a game symbol, the electronic game controller causes the display of one or more second symbol positions in addition to the first symbol positions and randomly determines whether to display a game symbol in each of the one or more second symbol positions.