Electronic Gaming Machine Keno With Retained Matched Spots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional keno games lack a bonus or feature game mechanism and do not allow for carrying matched spots into subsequent games, limiting player engagement and excitement.
Innovation Solution
An electronic gaming system that includes a processor to control a display device to display a keno card with selectable spots, randomly select balls, and initiate a feature keno game if a predetermined quantity of selected spots match feature trigger balls, allowing matched spots to be retained and re-dropped for additional chances to match remaining spots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional keno games are played without hold and drop mechanics, then the game structure remains simple, but player engagement and excitement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic game mechanics where matched spots are held across multiple ball selections rather than being reset. This allows the game state to evolve dynamically, with players retaining advantageous positions (matched spots) through subsequent draws, creating a more engaging and adaptable gameplay experience while maintaining clear structural rules
2Adaptability or versatility
If matched spots are not retained in subsequent games, then the game rounds are independent and simple to manage, but player participation and excitement decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification and marking of matched spots before the conclusion of each ball selection round. By pre-determining which spots are matched and holding them for subsequent rounds, the game creates continuity and anticipation while managing state transitions in a controlled, rule-based manner that balances complexity with player engagement
3Adaptability or versatility
If feature trigger balls are not implemented, then the ball selection process remains uniform, but player excitement and bonus opportunities are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces special feature trigger balls with distinct properties (different from regular balls) that activate bonus features when selected. This local differentiation within the ball selection system creates exciting bonus opportunities and varied gameplay moments while maintaining the overall uniformity and simplicity of the basic ball draw mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic gaming system includes a processor that is configured to display a keno card during a base game. The keno card includes a plurality of player selectable spots, and each spot includes a number. The system receives a player selection of one or more spots. During a random selection of numbered balls, the processor determines whether at least one ball of the plurality of balls includes a feature game trigger. A ball that includes the feature game trigger may be different from other balls produced by the random selection, in that the ball is gold colored (or otherwise visually distinct). If the ball including the feature game trigger matches at least one player selected spot, the processor may mark the player selected spot on the keno card as a matched spot and/or convert the spot to a cash or prize value. A feature game may also be triggered.