Dynamic Symbol 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 game structure and bonus prizes become familiar, resulting in limited differentiation between machines and a lack of incentive for continued play.
Innovation Solution
An electronic gaming machine that allows players to select from multiple bet options, each associated with different numbers of symbol positions and combinations, with the number of symbol positions changing based on an in-game trigger event, offering varying game rules and pay tables, and enabling the activation of feature games with enhanced prizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the same game structure and rules are used consistently, then the machine operates reliably and simply, but player interest decreases due to lack of variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the game array configuration changeable based on bet options. The electronic game controller dynamically reconfigures the array of symbol positions and pay lines according to the selected bet option, transforming a static game structure into a dynamic one that adapts to player choices, thereby increasing gameplay variation without permanently complicating the machine's structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the number of symbol positions and pay lines based on different bet options. When a player selects a higher bet option, the system increases parameters such as the number of active pay lines and symbol positions in the array, while lower bet options use fewer positions and lines. This allows the same physical machine to offer multiple gameplay experiences by changing operational parameters rather than structural components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bet options with different numbers of symbol positions are provided, then player engagement increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single game array structure that can serve multiple functions depending on the bet option selected. The same physical array of symbol positions and pay lines is used across all bet options, but the active configuration changes based on the player's selection. This multi-functional approach allows the machine to offer varied gameplay experiences without requiring separate hardware for each bet option, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic game controller dynamically activates or deactivates specific symbol positions and pay lines based on the selected bet option. This dynamic configuration allows the system to provide multiple bet options with different levels of complexity and engagement, while the underlying hardware remains unchanged. The controller adjusts the operational parameters in real-time based on player input.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of symbol positions changes based on bet option, then gameplay variety increases, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple bet options with their corresponding array configurations and pay tables before the player makes a selection. The electronic game controller has all the configuration data stored and ready, so when the player selects a bet option, the system can immediately switch to the appropriate configuration without requiring the player to manually adjust settings or understand complex parameters. This pre-prepared approach maintains ease of operation while providing gameplay variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts the game configuration based on the player's bet option selection without requiring additional input or manual adjustment. Once the player selects a bet option, the electronic game controller autonomously configures the number of active symbol positions, pay lines, and applies the appropriate pay table. This self-service mechanism simplifies operation by removing the burden of manual configuration from the player.
4Adaptability or versatility
If feature games are limited to a single set of rules, then the system remains simple to manage, but differentiation between machines decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends parameter changes to feature games by allowing the number of symbol positions and pay lines in feature games to also vary based on the bet option selected during the base game. This means that players who selected higher bet options with more symbol positions will experience feature games with correspondingly more positions and lines, creating a consistent and differentiated experience across all game modes. This approach allows machine differentiation through parameter variation rather than through complex management of multiple feature game rule sets.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic gaming machine comprises a display for displaying a game and an electronic game controller for controlling the display of game symbols on the display. The electronic game controller enables the player to select a bet option from a plurality of bet options. A first bet option has a first number of predetermined combinations of symbol positions and a second bet option has a second number of predetermined combinations of symbol positions. The first and second bet options and the first and second numbers are different to each other. In response to an in-game trigger event, the number of symbol positions in the array changes based on the selected bet option. A gaming method is also provided.