Two-Player Gaming Machine Shared Feature Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional gaming machines primarily cater to single players, lacking a shared multi-player experience that could enhance player engagement and interest through collaborative gameplay features.
Innovation Solution
A gaming machine system that allows two players to share feature games by using two sets of reels with a common game board, where tokens advance based on spin outcomes, triggering shared awards and feature games when both players land on specific locations, including a 'Middle Jackpot' and individual awards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-player gaming machines are used, then the game mechanics are simple to operate, but player engagement and interaction are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate single-player games into one shared multi-player experience by merging their feature games and award structures. Two players simultaneously play their base games while sharing a common feature game that triggers when either player achieves certain outcomes, creating integrated multiplayer engagement without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The gaming machine is designed to serve multiple functions: it operates as two independent single-player machines for base game play while simultaneously functioning as a shared multi-player platform for feature games and progressive awards. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to support both solo and collaborative gaming modes
2Adaptability or versatility
If shared feature games are implemented for two players, then player engagement and community atmosphere are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gaming system is segmented into distinct functional modules: two separate base game areas with individual reels for each player, and a shared feature game area with common reels and board. This segmentation allows independent operation of base games while enabling coordinated interaction in the shared feature area, managing complexity through functional separation
Solution Approach 2:
A shared board with positions and tokens acts as an intermediary between the two players' base games. The board mediates the interaction by providing a common space where outcomes from either player's base game can trigger feature game events, facilitating multiplayer engagement without direct player-to-player conflict
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple award types are introduced including simultaneous and individual awards, then player interest and engagement are increased, but the game rules and structure become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Different award types are assigned to different locations on the shared board, creating local variations in game dynamics. Certain board positions offer simultaneous awards when both players land there, while other positions provide individual awards to specific players. This local differentiation adds strategic depth and player interest without requiring complex global rule changes
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are two-player games, gaming machines, gaming systems and methods including one or more shared feature games. Each player has a respective base game, game board and a token movable on his game board in response to his base game outcomes. Certain combinations of token positions on the two game boards may trigger play of one or more feature games shared by the players.