Gaming Machine Player Predictable Volatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gaming machine manufacturers face the challenge of maintaining player interest and attracting new customers due to the repetitive nature of games, leading to intense competition in the market where innovative features that enhance player engagement are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A gaming machine with a game controller that allows players to predict the outcome of a game feature, offering a bonus based on the difficulty of achieving the predicted outcome, where the player can select their desired volatility through a touch screen interface, and the bonus is multiplied by the number of credits bet in the base game.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gaming machines are used with fixed game features, then the game structure remains simple and reliable, but player interest decreases over time due to repetitiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic game features where the game mode changes during play based on random events and player choices. The game transitions between different modes (standard play, free games, bonus games) with varying volatility levels, making the game structure adaptable rather than static. This resolves the contradiction by introducing variability without requiring multiple separate game machines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key game parameters during play, including volatility level, bonus frequency, and payout structure. Players can select different volatility levels that adjust the risk-reward balance, and the system dynamically modifies parameters based on game state and player predictions. This allows simple base game mechanics to produce varied and engaging experiences.
2Ease of operation
If game features are made more innovative and complex to maintain player interest, then player engagement improves, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent presents players with predetermined game feature options and volatility levels before the feature begins. Players make selections in advance (e.g., choosing volatility level, predicting bonus outcomes) that lock in the game parameters for that feature. This simplifies operation during play while maintaining engagement through meaningful pre-game choices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback to players about their prediction accuracy, bonus progress, and volatility impacts. Visual displays show meter readings, bonus counts, and outcome predictions, allowing players to adjust their strategy in real-time. This feedback loop maintains engagement without requiring players to understand complex underlying game mechanics.
3Loss of information
If the game offers multiple volatility levels and prediction options, then player choice and engagement increase, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring game state increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the game state into distinct, visually separated components: volatility level indicators, bonus meter readings, prediction outcome displays, and credit information. Each element is presented in its own designated area of the display, making it easy for players to locate and understand specific game parameters without being overwhelmed by the overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming machine has a display and a game controller arranged to control images of symbols displayed on the display. The game controller is arranged to play a game wherein at least one random event is caused to be displayed on the display. If a predefined winning event occurs, the machine awards a prize. The gaming machine further comprises a selector applicable to a game feature where, upon a trigger condition occurring in a base game, a player is afforded an opportunity of predicting an outcome of the feature and, if the player's prediction is correct, a bonus is awarded to the player.