Electronic Gaming Machine Dynamic Symbol Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic gaming machines lack variation in gameplay, leading to decreased player interest as the same structure and rules apply to both base and bonus games, resulting in limited differentiation and incentives for continued play.
Innovation Solution
An electronic gaming machine that allows players to select bet options influencing the number of special symbols on reels, activating bonus games with varying prize values and probabilities, along with dynamic graphical displays and multiplier symbols, to enhance gameplay variety and reward potential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same game structure and rules are used for both base game and bonus game, then the game implementation is simple, but player interest decreases due to lack of variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic game structures where the bonus game can be configured with different rules, symbol requirements, and prize structures compared to the base game. The electronic game controller can dynamically adjust game parameters such as the number of reels, paylines, and symbol combinations required for winning, providing gameplay variation while maintaining a unified hardware platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key game parameters between base and bonus modes, including the number of special symbols required for activation, the configuration of reel strips, pay table values, and prize award structures. These parameter changes create distinct gameplay experiences without requiring fundamentally different game implementations.
2Device complexity
If the number of special symbols on reel strips is fixed, then the game implementation is simple, but player engagement decreases due to lack of customization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic symbol assignment where the number of special symbols placed on reel strips varies based on the bet option selected by the player. Different bet levels (e.g., minimum, medium, maximum) correspond to different configurations of special symbols, allowing players to customize their gameplay experience and risk/reward profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the concentration and distribution of special symbols on reel strips according to the selected bet option. Higher bet options may feature more special symbols or symbols positioned in more favorable locations, directly linking player input to game configuration parameters.
3Device complexity
If bonus game activation probability is fixed, then the game implementation is simple, but player interest decreases due to lack of incentive variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the activation probability of bonus games based on the bet option selected. Different bet levels correspond to different probabilities of triggering the bonus feature, creating a direct incentive structure where players can increase their chances of bonus activation by selecting higher bet options. This is achieved by dynamically adjusting the random number generation thresholds or symbol distribution patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides feedback to players about the potential benefits of different bet options, including information about bonus activation probabilities and expected returns. This feedback mechanism helps players make informed decisions about their betting strategy and understand the relationship between their choices and game outcomes.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an electronic gaming machine comprising a display for displaying game symbols for playing a game of chance on a plurality of reels. An electronic game controller assigns a number of special symbols to one or more reel strips associated with the reels, the number of special symbols being variable and dependent on a first bet value selected by a player. The appearance of at least two special symbols causes the electronic game controller to activate a bonus game of chance comprising the award of at least one the bonus prize in response to a predetermined outcome of the bonus game of chance. A gaming method is also provided.