Gaming Device Dynamic Column Expansion via Qualifier Symbols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic gaming systems lack the ability to dynamically expand columns based on predefined qualifying symbols, and they struggle to improve randomness in game outcomes without increasing data storage and computational resources.
Innovation Solution
The system uses a random number generator (RNG) to determine symbol selections and column expansions, where the appearance of a qualifier symbol triggers column growth by adding random numbers of symbol positions to remaining columns, enhancing randomness and potential outcomes without additional data storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of symbol positions in columns is increased to provide more display variety and reward scenarios, then the game outcomes become more diverse and engaging, but the data storage requirements and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the number of symbol positions in columns variable rather than fixed. Columns can dynamically expand or contract based on random number generator outcomes, allowing the display to adapt its capacity during gameplay. This enables diverse display scenarios without requiring permanent storage for all possible configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of column size from a static attribute to a dynamic one that varies based on game state. By using random number generators to determine the number of symbol positions, the system creates different display configurations without storing all possibilities, thus maintaining versatility while reducing data storage requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of symbol positions in columns is increased to provide more reward scenarios, then the game outcomes become more diverse and engaging, but the computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts column sizes based on random number generator outcomes rather than processing all possible configurations simultaneously. This dynamic approach reduces computational complexity by only calculating and displaying relevant reward scenarios based on current game state and RNG results.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by only generating and processing the necessary number of symbol positions based on random determinations, rather than pre-computing all possible reward scenarios. This selective processing maintains reward diversity while reducing computational resource requirements.
3Reliability
If a random number generator is used to determine game outcomes, then the fairness and unpredictability of the game are improved, but the ability to control and optimize game outcomes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines column sizes and symbol positions using random number generators, creating unpredictable and fair outcomes. The dynamic nature of the RNG-based selection process ensures that each game instance is unique while maintaining fairness, balancing control and randomness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the random number generator outcomes directly influence the game display and reward structure. The system uses the RNG results to determine column expansions and symbol selections, creating a feedback loop that maintains fairness while allowing for optimized game outcomes based on random determinations.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic gaming device is provided. The electronic gaming device may include a memory storing reel data defining a plurality of reel strips, each reel strip being associated with a respective one of a plurality of columns of symbol positions. The electronic gaming device may be configured to select, using a random number generator, symbols from a first reel strip and second reel strip for each symbol position of a first column and second column of symbol positions each having a base number of symbol positions, and upon determining that the symbols selected for the first and second columns of symbol positions both include a defined symbol of a plurality of defined symbols, set, for remaining columns, a number of symbol positions by adding a number of symbol positions determined using the random number generator to the base number of symbol positions.