Gaming Machine Virtual Reel Bonus Feature Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gaming machines lack the ability to provide dynamic and attractive bonus features that can enhance player engagement and interest.
Innovation Solution
A gaming machine that includes a display unit, a memory device storing a game execution program, and a game control unit with a processor. The processor executes the game program to display virtual reels and credit prize symbols, triggering bonus features based on special symbols and providing random credit awards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical slot machines with simple reel mechanisms are used, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the player engagement and game attractiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical reel systems with a computer-controlled video display system. The processor generates virtual reels and symbols digitally, eliminating complex mechanical components while enabling sophisticated bonus features, multiple paylines, and dynamic game scenarios that significantly enhance player engagement and game attractiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic game features including multiple adjustable paylines, variable bonus triggers, and random symbol generation that changes with each spin. The game control unit can dynamically modify game parameters, create cascading reel effects, and provide varying payout structures, making the game adaptable and continuously engaging for players.
2Adaptability or versatility
If video slot machines with computer-controlled virtual reels are implemented, then game functionality and player engagement improve, but the manufacturing precision and initial investment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces precision mechanical reel systems with software-based virtual reel generation. The processor creates and displays reel symbols digitally, eliminating the need for precise mechanical alignment, balanced rotating components, and complex gearing systems while maintaining or enhancing game functionality through software-controlled randomness and animation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital rendering to create visual copies of traditional slot machine reels and symbols on a display screen. This allows the game to replicate the appearance and feel of mechanical slots while using software algorithms to determine outcomes, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while preserving game functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bonus features with multiple credit prize symbols are added, then player engagement and game attractiveness increase, but the device complexity and programming requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal bonus feature system where the same game control unit and processor that manage the main slot game also handle bonus feature logic, symbol generation, and credit calculation. The system uses the existing virtual reel and symbol framework to generate bonus symbols, eliminating the need for separate hardware or dedicated programming systems and reducing overall complexity while enhancing functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming machine is described herein. The gaming machine includes a control unit programmed display a game screen including a primary game area and a bonus feature event area. The control unit displays the plurality of credit prize symbols in the bonus feature event area with each credit prize symbol being associated with a corresponding special symbol and having an associated credit value. The control unit spins and stops the plurality of virtual reels to display an outcome of the game and determines an amount of credits based on the credit value of each displayed credit prize symbol that is associated with the special symbol displayed in the outcome of the primary game.