Token-Based Game Selection in Electronic Gaming Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic gaming machines lack features that retain player interest, as bonus or feature games are limited and lack variation, leading to familiarity and a lack of differentiation between main and feature games.
Innovation Solution
An electronic gaming machine that displays game symbols for a first game, triggering a second game with special symbols awarding tokens, which accumulate to unlock a selection of third games based on token values, offering enhanced or varied gameplay experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electronic gaming machines use limited bonus or feature games, then the device complexity is reduced, but player interest and engagement deteriorate due to familiarity and lack of variation
Solution Approach 1:
The gaming machine dynamically transitions between base game mode and feature game mode based on token accumulation. The system adapts its state according to player progress, unlocking different feature games as tokens are collected, creating a dynamic and evolving gameplay experience rather than a static set of games
Solution Approach 2:
The feature games are segmented into multiple distinct games (first feature game, second feature game, third feature game) that are unlocked progressively. Each game segment serves a specific purpose in the overall gameplay structure, allowing players to experience different game modes rather than repeating the same game
2Adaptability or versatility
If the same set of reels and rules are used for both main game and feature game, then the device complexity is minimized, but player interest deteriorates due to lack of differentiation
Solution Approach 1:
Different feature games are configured with distinct local qualities - different reel sets, different rule structures, and different gameplay characteristics. Each feature game has its own unique properties tailored to provide varied gameplay experiences while maintaining the overall game theme
Solution Approach 2:
The gaming machine system is designed to perform multiple functions by hosting different types of games (base game, first feature game, second feature game, third feature game) within a single device framework, allowing one machine to provide diverse gaming experiences rather than being limited to a single game type
3Ease of operation
If feature games are operated under a single set of rules, then the ease of operation is improved, but player interest deteriorates due to lack of incentive to continue playing
Solution Approach 1:
The gaming system implements periodic transitions between different game modes and rule sets. Players experience the base game, then transition to feature games with different rules, creating a rhythmic pattern of gameplay variation that maintains engagement while keeping each individual game mode simple to understand
4Ease of manufacture
If there is little differentiation between gaming machines in terms of main and feature games, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but player interest deteriorates due to lack of apparent incentive
Solution Approach 1:
The gaming machine utilizes parameter changes in the form of token accumulation thresholds to unlock different feature games. This creates a progression system where the machine's available functionality changes based on player achievement, providing unique gameplay experiences that differentiate the machine from conventional offerings
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic gaming machine comprises a display for displaying game symbols for playing a first game of chance, and an electronic game controller for controlling the display of the game symbols on the display. In response to a trigger event in the first game, a second game of chance is displayed, where the appearance of one or more special symbols causes the award of one or more tokens associated with one or more token values. At the end of the second game, an accumulated token value is determined and if it is equal to a predetermined number, a plurality of third games of chance is displayed and is selectable by the player. The third games displayed depend on the accumulated token value. A gaming method is also provided.