Wagering Game Expander Element Array Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gaming systems lack innovative mechanisms to enhance player engagement and entertainment value by offering new types of selection games that trigger awards based on player interactions, particularly in wagering games.
Innovation Solution
A gaming system and method that involves displaying a plurality of selectable elements in an array, where selecting an expander element reveals outcomes associated with all elements in a specific direction, providing awards to players for both award and expander elements, and allowing players to strategize based on the population algorithm of expander elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional selection games are used, then player engagement is maintained at basic levels, but entertainment value and strategic depth are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing expander elements within the array of selectable elements. When a player selects an expander element, it triggers expansion to reveal additional elements and awards in a nested manner, creating multiple layers of gameplay within a single selection action. This nested structure increases entertainment value without requiring separate game modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic gameplay through expander elements that change the game state based on player selections. The array transitions from a static grid to a dynamic structure where selected expander elements trigger cascading revelations of awards and additional selectable elements. This dynamic behavior creates strategic depth and varying gameplay experiences while maintaining a unified game interface.
2Quantity of substance
If more selectable elements are added to increase award potential, then player winnings increase, but game complexity and difficulty of detection increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the array of selectable elements into distinct functional categories: award elements that directly provide winnings and expander elements that trigger additional revelations. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing elements according to their specific functions, making the game more manageable while increasing the total number of potential awards through the expander mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning expander elements within the array before the game begins. These expander elements are prepared in advance to trigger specific patterns of award revelation when selected. This preliminary arrangement allows the system to expand the number of awards systematically without increasing the initial visual complexity of the game interface.
3Ease of operation
If expander elements are added to trigger group awards, then player engagement and strategic play increase, but the number of elements and game rules increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing expander elements to serve multiple functions: they act as selectable elements themselves, trigger revelation of hidden awards, activate additional expander elements, and create strategic gameplay patterns. This multi-functionality increases player engagement and strategic depth while minimizing the number of separate game mechanisms required, as the expander elements handle multiple game operations within a single element type.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of conducting a wagering game comprises receiving a wager from a player, and displaying a plurality of selectable elements arranged in an array, each of the selectable elements associated with a respective outcome. The method further comprises receiving a plurality of selections of the selectable elements, and after receiving the plurality of selections, revealing the outcomes associated with the selected elements. For each outcome which comprises an award, the award is provided to the player. For each outcome which comprises an expander element, outcomes associated with all selectable elements in a direction of expansion associated with the expander element are revealed, and if any such revealed outcomes comprise an award, the award is provided to the player.