Gaming Device Selectable Awards Free Game Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Known gaming devices with free game modes can be frustrating for players due to the lengthy time required to display each outcome and lack of player interaction, leading to decreased engagement and profitability.
Innovation Solution
A gaming machine and method that allows players to select between different awards, including varying numbers of free games and multipliers, increasing player interaction and excitement by enabling choices during the free game mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the gaming device automatically plays each free game and displays each outcome sequentially, then the player receives a substantial number of free games, but the time required to display each outcome becomes significant and the player becomes frustrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic player choice during the free game mode, allowing players to select between different award options (e.g., more free games vs. higher payouts) at predetermined intervals. This transforms the static automatic playback into a dynamic interactive experience where players can control the pace and type of rewards, thereby reducing frustration while maintaining substantial free game quantities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary selection mechanism that mediates between the system's automatic free game dispensing and the player's experience. By inserting choice points where players can select award types, the system bridges the gap between automated operation and player engagement, allowing players to opt for faster-paced options when frustrated while still receiving substantial free game quantities.
2Ease of operation
If the gaming device automatically plays each free game without requiring player interaction, then the free game mode is simple to operate, but the player becomes frustrated with the lack of interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static automatic playback to dynamic interactive mode by introducing choice points during free game sequences. Players can select between different award options (e.g., additional free games vs. cash payouts) at predetermined intervals, transforming the experience from passive to active while maintaining ease of operation through simple touchscreen or button selections.
Solution Approach 2:
The free game mode becomes multi-functional by incorporating both automatic playback capability and player selection capability. The system can operate in purely automatic mode for simplicity or transition to interactive mode with award selections, adapting to different player preferences and maintaining both ease of operation and player engagement within the same mode.
3Quantity of substance
If the gaming device provides a large number of free games, then the player receives substantial rewards, but the extended gameplay duration increases player frustration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic pacing controls where players can select between different award types at predetermined intervals during free game sequences. This allows players to convert accumulated free games into immediate payouts when they feel the duration has become excessive, while still having the option to continue accumulating free games if they wish to extend gameplay, thereby giving players control over the duration-reward tradeoff.
Solution Approach 2:
The selection mechanism acts as an intermediary that allows players to mediate between receiving substantial free game quantities and managing gameplay duration. By introducing choice points where players can opt for immediate payouts versus continuing free games, the system enables players to control the pace and duration of gameplay while still accessing substantial reward quantities.
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming machine for providing a slot game to a player is described herein. The gaming machine includes a display device and a controller for displaying a game to a player. The controller is configured to randomly determine an outcome of the game and display the outcome on the display device, determine a first award as a function of the outcome, and determine a second award as a function of the first award. The first award includes a first number of free games and a first award multiplier. The second award includes a second number of free games and a second award multiplier. The controller allows the player to select one of the first award and the second award and responsively provides the selected one of the first award and the second award to the player.