Slot Machine Variable Suspense Reel Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard slot machine games face challenges in maintaining player suspense and excitement, with near misses potentially leading to perceptions of game rigging and regulatory issues, while existing methods to increase suspense are limited and may not apply to traditional 3-reel games.
Innovation Solution
A method to dynamically adjust the suspense level by changing the order of reel resolution in slot machine games, allowing for a variable level of suspense without altering the underlying game mathematics, achieved by evaluating a suspense factor and computing an optimal order of reel resolution based on the game outcome.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If near misses are increased through weighted reels and clustering, then player excitement and suspense are improved, but player perception of game fairness deteriorates and regulatory compliance worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reel resolution order variable rather than fixed. The system dynamically selects resolution orders from multiple possible sequences (e.g., 1-2-3, 1-3-2, 2-1-3, etc.) based on suspense factors and game outcomes. This dynamic approach creates near misses organically through the resolution sequence without requiring weighted reels or clustering, thereby maintaining game fairness perception while still generating player excitement.
2Productivity
If reel resolution order is changed to increase suspense, then player engagement is improved, but game complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of reel resolution order to control suspense levels. By selecting from a finite set of predefined resolution sequences and adjusting the suspense factor parameter, the system can vary game excitement without introducing complex mechanical or structural changes. The complexity is managed through software logic that selects from predetermined sequences rather than requiring complex dynamic reel mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If traditional left-to-right reel resolution is used, then game simplicity is maintained, but player suspense is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains simplicity by using predetermined resolution sequences rather than complex dynamic mechanisms. The traditional left-to-right resolution (1-2-3) remains one of several valid options, and the system can switch between sequences based on suspense factors. This dynamic selection from simple, predefined patterns preserves ease of operation while enhancing player suspense through varied resolution experiences.
Data Source
AI summary
A slot machine which can be adjusted to alter the suspense level without changing the mathematics of the gameplay. By evaluating the final outcome before the reels stop spinning, the order in which the reels stop may be adjusted to either increase or decrease the level of suspense for the player, when compared with the standard left-to-right order.