Hold-and-Spin Game GUI Layout for Small-Screen Symbol Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hold-and-spin feature games on small-format displays, such as smartphone screens, are less effective due to reduced symbol visibility and difficulty in discerning symbols when multiple columns are displayed, necessitating smaller symbol sizes that hinder player experience.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface (GUI) for hold-and-spin feature games on small-format displays that utilizes a reduced number of columns, with adjustable column sizes and additional symbol positions added during gameplay, enhancing visibility and award opportunities, and potentially including a bonus game.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple columns are displayed on small-format displays, then the game offers more symbol positions and award opportunities, but symbol visibility and discernibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The game interface is segmented into a configurable number of columns (e.g., 3, 4, or 5 columns) with adjustable rows, allowing the symbol grid to be divided into manageable sections that maintain visibility while providing sufficient quantity of symbol positions for engaging gameplay
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional horizontal reel spinning to a vertical column-based grid system where symbols are selected and displayed in column positions, fundamentally changing the spatial dimension of symbol presentation to optimize small-screen real estate
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If column sizes are increased to improve symbol visibility, then fewer columns can be displayed, but the number of award opportunities is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The column and row configuration is made dynamic and adjustable, allowing players to select different grid dimensions (e.g., 3x5, 4x4, 5x3) to balance symbol visibility with the quantity of symbol positions, adapting the interface to individual preferences and screen capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the symbol grid (number of columns, number of rows, symbols per column) to optimize the balance between visibility and quantity, allowing flexible adjustment of these parameters to achieve the desired trade-off
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the number of columns is reduced to improve symbol visibility, then the game complexity is reduced, but player engagement may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a hold-and-spin feature game that is triggered by obtaining a certain number of scatter symbols during base game play, allowing players to preserve selected symbols and spin remaining positions for additional awards, adding strategic depth without requiring more columns
Solution Approach 2:
The hold-and-spin feature game allows players to retain (hold) valuable symbols across multiple spin cycles, continuing the opportunity to win awards without requiring the game to reset or reload, maintaining player engagement through sustained action
Data Source
AI summary
A graphical user interface for providing a game of chance with a hold-and-spin feature game mechanic in a format that features a smaller number of reels than is provided in typical hold-and-spin games. The graphical interface is configured to nevertheless provide a hold-and-spin gameplay experience similar to that found in hold-and-spin games having a larger number of reels.