Dynamic Symbol Array Growth in Electronic Gaming Machines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic gaming machines (EGMs) lack a feature that dynamically adjusts the array size of symbol positions during gameplay, which can lead to decreased player engagement and revenue streams, as the current fixed array size does not adapt to player interactions or provide increased chances of triggering feature games.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where the array of symbol positions in EGMs can grow in one dimension in response to specific conditions, such as the appearance of array growth symbols, allowing for additional symbol positions and increased chances of triggering feature games, including a feature game that uses the same array dimensions as the main game at the time of trigger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the array of symbol positions uses a fixed size, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but player engagement decreases and revenue streams are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic array growth where the array of symbol positions can expand in size during gameplay based on specific conditions being met. The array dimensions are no longer fixed but can grow adaptively, allowing the game to transition from a static structure to a dynamic one that responds to player actions and game events, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through controlled expansion rules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the array of symbol positions is fixed, then the game rules are simpler and ease of operation is improved, but the chances of triggering feature games remain limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces array growth in an additional dimension by expanding the array of symbol positions during gameplay. This dimensional expansion creates more symbol positions and consequently increases the number of possible paylines and winning combinations, thereby enhancing the probability of triggering feature games without fundamentally complicating the core gameplay mechanics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the array size remains constant, then the programming and manufacturing are simpler, but player interest and revenue potential decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes predetermined conditions and rules for array growth before gameplay begins. These pre-defined triggers and expansion parameters allow the system to manage array growth automatically based on specific game events, reducing the need for complex real-time decision-making while maintaining gameplay variability and player engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
Electronic gaming machines and systems are disclosed that provide for a symbol-based main game that features an array of symbol positions that may, if an array growth condition is met, increase in size. Determining whether the array growth condition is met may involve determining how many array growth symbols are shown in association with a game play. A further determination may be made as to whether a feature game trigger condition is met and, if so, a feature game may be presented that utilizes the same array of symbol positions that were present in the main game when the feature game was triggered. Additional array growth may occur in the feature game if the array growth condition is met again.