Gaming Device Variable Symbol Replacement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic gaming machines lack dynamic and engaging visual transformations that can enhance player interaction and outcome opportunities, relying on conventional symbol displays and limited background variations.
Innovation Solution
A gaming device and method that randomly selects symbol replacement mechanisms when a qualifier symbol is landed, allowing for animated visual transformations of symbols and backgrounds, enabling multiple visual background transformation opportunities in both base and feature games.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional symbol displays are used in electronic gaming machines, then the device complexity is low, but the player engagement and visual appeal are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic symbol transformation where symbols can change from initial symbols to transformed symbols based on game outcomes. The display dynamically updates to show symbol transformations, backgrounds changing, and symbol replacements occurring during gameplay, creating visual engagement without requiring complex hardware changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to symbol display by showing symbols before transformation and after transformation. Multiple symbol states exist in sequence, creating a narrative progression that enhances player engagement through visual storytelling rather than static displays
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic visual transformations are implemented, then player engagement is enhanced, but the game outcome determination becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent determines game outcomes using RNG before any visual transformations occur. The outcome determination is completed in advance, and subsequent symbol transformations are merely visual representations of predetermined results, not additional complexity in outcome determination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual copies and representations of symbols during transformation sequences. The transformed symbols are visual manifestations of the determined outcome, not additional determination processes, maintaining simplicity in outcome logic while enhancing visual appeal
3Productivity
If multiple symbol replacement mechanisms are used, then game outcomes are improved, but the calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of symbol state from static to transformed based on game outcomes. Symbols transition between different states (initial, transformed, replaced) according to predetermined game logic, improving outcomes through clear parameter changes rather than complex calculations
4Adaptability or versatility
If animated visual transformations are added, then player attention is directed to transforming symbols, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic or sequential visual transformations rather than continuous animation. Symbols transform at specific moments in the game sequence, directing player attention at key moments without requiring continuous energy-consuming animation, balancing engagement with energy efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming device having a processor that selects symbols from a first set of reel strips for a plurality of columns of symbol positions, and from a second set of reel strips for a plurality of columns of symbol positions, and controls a display to display the symbols selected including displaying, at each symbol position for which a defined symbol is selected, the defined symbol with the symbol selected at a respective symbol position. Upon the symbols selected including a qualifier symbol, the processor randomly selects one of at least two different symbol replacements, and determines, using the symbol replacements, a replacement symbol for the defined symbol selected. The processor updates the plurality of symbols to incorporate the replacement symbol, and evaluates the updated plurality of symbols for winning symbol combinations.