Node-Based Game Evaluation With Player-Controlled Progression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic games lack a sense of progression and player engagement, as they often provide static wins or losses without allowing players to control the direction of the game in a logical and entertaining way.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a graph-based presentation that represents the current state and possible future states of the game, allowing players to make selections that dynamically change the game state based on predefined events and thresholds, with a tiered representation of game progress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a static game structure is used, then the game is simple to operate, but player engagement and sense of progression are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegame operation simplicityVSAvoidplayer engagement and progression
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static game structure into a dynamic state machine model where the game state evolves through defined transitions. The game progresses through multiple states (initial state, intermediate states, final states) with transitions triggered by player actions and system events, creating a sense of progression while maintaining operational simplicity through automated state management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the game into distinct states and transitions, dividing the game flow into manageable components. Each state represents a specific game condition, and transitions represent possible changes between states. This segmentation allows the game to provide structured progression paths while keeping the overall operation simple through clear state boundaries and defined transition rules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a graph-based state presentation is implemented, then player engagement and control are enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplayer control and progressionVSAvoidgame structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a state machine model as an abstract representation (copy) of the game logic, separating the conceptual state structure from the physical implementation. The state machine diagram serves as a blueprint that defines game behavior without requiring complex physical structures, allowing the system to manage complexity through informational representation rather than physical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The state machine framework serves multiple functions simultaneously: it defines game progression, manages player control options, tracks game state, and determines transition conditions. This universal framework handles various game mechanics through a single coherent structure, reducing overall device complexity by consolidating multiple functions into one system rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic state transitions are implemented, then game progression and player control are improved, but loss of time for state management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegame progressionVSAvoidstate management time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The state machine implementation is self-service in that the system automatically manages state transitions based on predefined rules and triggers. When a player action or system event occurs, the state machine automatically determines the appropriate transition and updates the game state without requiring manual intervention for state management. This automation reduces the time loss associated with state management while maintaining dynamic progression.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The state machine provides immediate feedback by automatically processing player actions and transitioning states in real-time. The system continuously monitors game conditions and automatically updates the state based on predefined transition criteria, eliminating delays between player input and game response. This feedback mechanism ensures smooth game progression without time loss in state management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12430991B2Node-based game evaluation and game play
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 INTERNATIONAL GAME TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US12430991B2 patent drawing
  • US12430991B2 patent drawing
  • US12430991B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to operating an electronic game according to a graph presentation representing a current state and possible future states for the game. Various embodiments described herein provide the player with a graph representing possible choices during game play with each choice influencing a future state and flow of the game. Embodiments allow player input as well as randomness to navigate the graph and determine the flow and outcomes of the game. Various embodiments determine how the player can navigate the graph, how the prizes are awarded based on the graph, and how the player can change the graph.